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JAINA CONVENTION 2011
"Live and Help Live"
Dear JAINA President, Executive Members, Board Directors and all,
I want to express my blessings to all as we gather for the 16th Biennial JAINA Convention.
The Jain heritage is one of "living by giving." It is an ancient tradition that nourishes the practitioner while benefiting all living beings. When we carry reverence for animals, plants and humans, we acknowledge the beauty, truth and wisdom of life. By honoring the divinity in others, we honor the divinity in ourselves.
The topic of this year's conference, "Live & Help Live" is best exemplified by our guiding principles: Ahinsa, or non-violence; Anekantavada, relativity of thinking and perception; and Aparigraha, the beauty of simplicity and non-acquisition.
Ahinsa is a daily lifestyle that starts with a diet of plant-based food. By cultivating compassion and consideration for what we eat, we play a vital role in sustaining the balance of the whole planet.
Anekantavada is a peaceful way of communicating. We strive to create a sacred space in the heart where we hold the opinions and beliefs of others with respect and empathy. When we allow others to express their feelings without criticism or judgment we promote mutual understanding. In this way, Anekantavada is a highway in which all "exits" of beliefs merge.
In this way, Anekantavad without criticism or judent and empathy. When we
Aparigraha is our worldview expressed by a simplicity of life governing our words, thoughts and actions. Its greatest obstacle is egoism, so we are always mindful of the need for humility.
With faithful application of these three practices, we create a better life for ourselves and others. And so, on this memorable occasion, I bless and appreciate all the members who have made JAINA a vibrant and ever-growing unity.
Love & Blessings,
Chitrabhanu
Be a whisper or be a scream, just be a voice for the voiceless baby calves
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