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Chapter 5
VEGETARIANISM
AJAY's family often sat down together, after dinner, to talk.
Ajay's mother would begin the meeting by reciting the Namaskar Mantra. She would then sing a beautiful prayer.
The children would then talk about their school, their friends, their games, books and toys.
Ajay's mother would tell them about her day at work and at home. Their father would talk about his work.
In one of these meetings Ajay's elder sister Rekha said, "I went out for lunch with my friend Margaret today."
Her mother asked, "What did you eat, Rekha?"
Rekha said, "I did not have much choice, as this wasn't a vegetarian restaurant. I finally decided on vegetarian pizza. Margaret was quite curious about what we eat. I talked to her about our vegetarian diet." Rekha continued, "I have invited Margaret for dinner this Friday. I hope that is all right, mummy!"
Karunaben said, "Of course, Rekha, Margaret is very welcome."
Ajay asked, "Daddy, can you tell me what we can and cannot eat?"
Abhaybhai said, "We do not eat meat, fish, sea-food or eggs. Most vegetarians do not eat meat, fish or sea-food. The Jain diet is more strict. I will tell you about that later. We do not drink alcohol. We do not waste food, and finish all that we have taken on our plate."
Ajay asked, "Daddy, can I come with you, when you and mummy go shopping next?"
Neela said, "I want to come too."
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