Book Title: Jain Digest 1998 07 Vol 14 No 03
Author(s): Federation of JAINA
Publisher: USA Federation of JAINA

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Page 19
________________ "There is nothing more powerful than an idea. No weapon can destroy it, no power can conquer it, except the power of another idea." Exceeding Expectations by Mansi Shah The Young Jains of America (YJA) Convention held in Hous- able mood for people to mingle (and dance). The food was actually ton Texas certainly surpassed my expectations. After attending the quite edible seeing that it was both Jain and vegan. convention in San Francisco, I was absolutely, positively sure that There was always a time and place where one would have to be, this convention would be a repeat of the last. The only difference whether it was a discussion, a lecture, or a presentation. Each would be that I would be two years older. attendant was on "check" which created an atmosphere where the The careful planning by the Houston Young Jains of America usual truant mannerisms that young adults were likely to execute, Convention Committee (HYJACC) and the Young Jains of America were not allowed. This made the convention serious, yet at the same Executive Board was seen by all the attendants of the convention. time, pleasant (due to the fact that one could be sure his/her best (Especially when attendants watched given a Simpsons episode on friend was not outside jetskiing). video, with Del Lago commercials, on their way to the convention.) The guest speakers made the convention engaging. All three, The schedule was tightly packed so that each attendant got every Gurudev Chitrabhanuji, Shri Balabhadraji and Pujya Sadhvi Shilapiji opportunity to grow spiritually. The time periods designated to were able to communicate effectively with today's youth, despite the relax became time to meet people and share ideas. The social obvious generation gap. The other guest speaker who "hit home" activities held were very successful in creating a relaxed and enjoy- through his poetry was the animated Benjamin Zephaniah. Every attendant was listening when he was speaking and sharing his Prayer at the opening ceremonies. experiences and ideals. (But of course, "What does that got to do with me?") All of the speakers positively contributed to the convention and to the lives of many Jain youth. While the educational aspects of the convention were unparalleled, the social interaction that was found at this convention was like no other. A conference where vegetarianism, non-violence and most importantly, Jainism ties all the attendants together is certainly one of a kind. The event taught one to approach and greet others with respect while learning about his/her new friend and creating bonds that even last till conventions thereafter. The many volunteers, adults and YJA attendants, must be commended for their hard work and diligence in making sure that all events ran smoothly (especially the hospitality snack room). The YJA Executive Board and HYJACC held a highly organized convention and they deserve a standing ovation. Sadhviji, Gurudev and Balabhadraji: Panelists on Different interpretations of Jainism. Part of Saturday's team building exercises. Jain Education International 2010_02 For Private & Personal Use Only www.jainelibrary.org

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