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conclusions - some of us believed that we did not have free Specifically, I learned to try to let go of minor addictions, in will, some believed we did, some believed in a limited level hopes of being more in control of my senses and impulses. of free will.
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How was this possible? We had all been raised in America and grew up learning Jain principles at Pathshala. Wasn't it
concerning that even with a similar background and using the same Jain texts to research and read about the topic, we had all come to different conclusions? I don't think so. In fact, I thought the experience was particularly enriching. Jainism itself teaches us that sometimes we cannot One of my minor addictions, for a really long time, included find the absolute truth. social media. I was constantly on social media, and this
Sometimes all we can ultimately distracted me from school work, and hindered have are parts of the truth. But why should that be any less me from developing close relations with others. In a way, significant? Each of us was making valid points and even an excess of social media actually disconnected me from though we were saying different things, we all had elements my surroundings, instead of connecting me with others. of the truth.
Before I entered high school, I came to the realization that
it was important to eliminate distractions, so I would be It is also very important to keep an open mind and make able to focus more. Additionally, I realized the importance a variety of friends. Don't just spend time with the people of actually talking and bonding with other people, as these who look like you or who think just like you. Actively go out were the connections and memories that would stick with and seek friends from different communities, from different me in the future. I was able to recall Jain principles in religions, from different majors - people who challenge you, regards to community and minor addictions; this led me to inspire you, and intrigue you. Take classes outside of the delete some of my social media accounts, in hopes of fixing major - subjects that you know nothing about, that you find this issue. challenging or intimidating. Take advantage of the diversity and variety of opinions at your college. Some of the most I still am working on becoming less attached to my phone, meaningful insights I have had about Jainism have come but since then, I have definitely noticed a change for the from discussions with people who had never heard of it. I've better in my lifestyle. I feel that I am now able to connect learned and gained insights about computer science from with people, and am able to completely indulge in the taking a law class. Knowledge is everywhere as long as you present moment-without having to worry about the trivial keep an open mind.
details of everyday life. I feel as if I am in better control of
my senses and impulses altogether. Vritika Patni, Age: 15 Jain Center of Greater Phoenix In pathshala class, I would learn about the importance of
community, and I would see this sense of togetherness with I have been attending pathshala classes everyone who attended. I think surrounding myself with a from a very young age, and Jain values supportive community and learning about Jain principles have been instilled in me for as long has helped me grow tremendously. It has been somewhat as I can remember. However, it was challenging to try to balance everyday circumstances with
not until this year-my freshman year Jain principles. Yet, at the same time, it has been rewarding in high-school-that I was really able to apply what I had to be able to apply what I have learned to a situation like learned in pathshala, to my everyday life.
this, and allow it to have such a positive, lasting impact on
my life. One of the principles Jainism has taught me is to try to let go of worldly attachments and material possessions, and instead place emphasis on being part of a community.
