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MARCH 2016
PRABUDDHJEEVAN
needed for their virtuous gems wishing, that by some Family shelter than anyone else. He believes that when means they could be good parent and give some he himself is fortunate to get whatever he wishes for in required comfort to their children. As soon as the life that brings him joy, children at Ozanam Family supplies were arranged on the table to be picked up shelther or no matter anywhere in the world, should by the families, the much awaited friends grabbed the also be as privileged as him. opportunity and gathered their needs. Seniors Seeing this, a thought out struck to me, that, soon preferably picked up warm socks and cream, mothers there should be a drive, to be undertaken keeping in of new born picked up Diapers and wipes, and within mind specifically needs of children. What would bring no time, the table was left with no more stuff. them joy and happiness be it for some time. For Gyanshala children were rejoiced with the feeling of example, organize a fun day for them including games giving. The sight was ineffable. !!
and activities, a craft workshop or a story tell out. During this course of time, a 6-year-old Gyanshala Collect interesting games for them and offer it as gifts. student noticed, that few kids at Ozanam Shelter, did Hope this thought forms its structure soon in near not come up to pick any supply. He was confused future. and surprised. He came up and asked why was that After the supplies were gathered by individuals at so? Even I noticed and it was surprising to see young Ozanam Family Shelter, the staff there offered an children aging between 5-12 least bothered about what insight tour of the shelter for Gyanshala children. was brought in and what was displayed for them to Students lined up with excitement and were all set to pick. They were busy doing their fun activities of see where the families lived and how their apartments playing games which gave them some moments of looked like. But as they saw the sight of big families carefree joy. For them the daily need supply wasn't living in a small square of room with just one bunk bed important. What clothes they wear and what soap they and closet, the excitement took a detour to grief and use, what toothpaste they need and what sock can sorrow. The sight was disconcerting. Young group of comfort them, did not matter atall. I was first taken Gyanshala students were brimming with innocent aback by this sight and kept thinking for a moment questions like "Do the children living in shelter go to why were children not interested in picking up the school? Do they get to eat ice creams and hot supplies. But then, the motherly call from my heart and chocolate? Do they get medical help when needed?" mind, gave me an insight that for a growing child, how and many more!! This tour was undeniably emotional can these supplies bring in any interest? As a mother and heartwarming. I know my children don't even bother if they have We all got back home with some sweet and some shower with soap or simply just water. They don't even sour memories to cherish forever. care if they brush with toothpaste or without it. If I'm Holiday drive and visit to Ozanam Family shelter, not mistaken, I'm sure there is a small little smile was truly a humbling experiences to be cherished. spreading with delicacy on your face as a reader right Gyanshala students faced this part of world as well now. But you would agree with me, that its only we as and realized the Jain belief that "Sharing is caring", and parents who are much concerned about what supplies facts about Aparigraha and Samabhavana. In order to we need on daily basis for our children.
encourage values of Jainism and humankind, this The little boy from Gyanshala quickly understood holiday drive conducted by JVBNA was one of its kind. and said, "these supplies are of no use for children By the means of such activities and social cause, roots here at Shelter. They are not interesting for them. So of Jainism, engraved today in the hearts of these next time we should bring in things that are interesting children, would surely enable them pursue the same for these children at Shelter". It's amazing to see how in near future. nicely Gyanshala children understand that it is Jain families living on this foreign land, strongly important to bring happiness to others. It is important believe that it is their duty as parents to bring such good to offer gifts only that bring interest to others and not deed a success, towards a better tomorrow!! what is comfortable for us to offer. It's a moment of pride to see this, when a Jain student at Gyanshala is 49. Wood Ave. Edison, N. J. - 08820. U.S.A. more interested in pleasing fellow aged personal at (917-582-5643). prachishah0809@gmail.com
