YJA Convention 1996 07 San Francisco CA Second

Author(s): Young Jains of America (YJA)
Publisher: Young Jains of America YJA USA

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We found that those who did not participate in the discussions, contributed very little to the discussions. Through direct experience, one develops one's own understanding and interpretation of the religion. Experience leaves a permanent mark in one's memory.
What happens after the experiment? Do people continue these principles in their own life? Our results have shown that for most serious participants, the experiments have left a mark on their lives. They have a much better idea of their needs, and a greater awareness of their inner violence. It has brought them closer to Jainism and encouraged them to practice the principle in their everyday life. Their approach to life has become much more positive, and has helped them in continuing Jain work, despite busy
schedules.
Summary and Conclusion
Jainism is a religion of everyday life. It can be practiced in our jobs, business or at home, provided we have the will to do it. It can lad us to a path of real happiness. Unfortunately, few of us practice the principles, and their are several reasons for this. Practice requires commitment and knowledge of Jainism and the techniques of practicing it in everyday life. The experiments that have been described in this booklet are one way of developing a technique of putting the principles into practice.
As an example, the experiment with Ahimsa (non-violence) was described and a detailed questionnaire was presented. The results were summarized. These showed that the principle is so profound and workable even in modern life. It is not a burden and can prove to be a source of joy and contentment for the participants. The limitations of the experiment were also explained. Ideally, the experiments should be focused and capable of being translated into practice.
Young Jains, a youth organization based in the United Kingdom, has been conducting these experiments for the last three years. They are conducted in a group and each time, a follow up meeting is held to discuss the results of the experiment. The importance of group participation cannot be over-emphasized. This would make them enjoyable and at the same time very educational. It was emphasized that for anyone to benefit from these, they should be experienced first hand. Only through personal experience can a deeper knowledge and awareness of the power of Jainism be obtained.
In the appendix, all experiments conducted so far are described and the results have been summarized. It is sincerely hoped that this booklet will be used as a workbook and that Jains living in the western world will start to practice the principles in their own lives. In this way, the flame of Jainism will remain shining even outside of India.
Appendix A
Essence of Jain Principles
'Sarve jive icchanti jivi...' Every living being has a strong desire to live and we must respect this in our thoughts and actions.
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