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AIN II JAI
BEHT CHARITY WALK
O
Como
n Saturday 30 July, many members from the community took part in an approx. TOKM
sponsored charity walk along the River Thames. The walk was organised by a local charity BEHT to raise funds for Education Projects in Gujarat, India, where it helps to run 2 schools. The walk was a family event where the whole family could take part. For children or adults who could not manage the 10km, then a 5km walk was allowed (by crossing the Millennium Bridge). The walk started at London Eye, across the Westminster Bridge, walk towards the Tower Bridge on the North side, cross the Tower Bridge and returned to London Eye walking along the South side of the river. Contact Ajay at ajay@caprin.co.uk for more info. I
memory, learning ability and a real passion for philosophy Upon returning to Kenya he became the National Lecturer for the TS. He gave numerous lectures not only to the TS but to the African nation at large. He spoke at numerous schools, churches and other organizations spreading the message of love, peace and harmony but, more importantly on practical ways of absorbing these qualities into our life. This I feel is the greatest loss to the people of Africa; Reuben was instrumental in showing this nation the light amongst the difficulties they face in today's society
One of Reuben's strengths was that he could clearly communicate with everyone young, old, children and babies! He spoke eloquently not only in English but in Kiswahili and Kikuyu.
REUBEN THUKU
n Wednesday 23" 2004 Brother Reuben Thuku, National Lecturer for the Theosophical Society
and guest Speaker at the YJ 1998 convention, passed away in his home town of Nakuru, Kenya. Unfortunately, Reuben contracted cerebral Malaria after a lecturing trip to a small town Kakamega and never recovered from it.
Reuben's knowledge, eloquency, clarity, humbleness and presence have taken him a long way. In 1998 he was the guest speaker at the YJ "Art of Living" convention. Here he spoke on Jainism: the message of Bhagwan Mahavir and the Jina's and how to incorporate their message into our daily lives. He spoke as though he was a Jain scholar who had a deep inner understanding of the subject. The delegates were so moved that he received a standing ovation.
Reuben lost his beloved wife a few years ago and it is really heart-breaking since they now leave behind four children Muneno, Juguna, Wandya and Wachira (12 years). May God give them the strength and spirit to overcome this tragedy.
"When Reuben shares his thoughts - you don't connect with the man, a blind, black African, but you connect with the soul" Priti Shah
Reuben had been blind since the age of five but, this handicap was never a barrier for him. He was a man of determination and conviction.
After the success of Rueben's YJ trip in 1998 he was invited again a few times by other organizations to speak on spirituality both here and in the US. He has also written articles in the "Jain Spirit" magazine. From his writings and words we know that he has SEEN much more than many of us and he has travelled widely with his imaginative powers.
I feel a great sadness to think that we will not be able to hear his spoken words and feel his vibrant presence, however, the beautiful fragrance that his life and spirit has created will always remain with in our hearts.
He completed his education at the Thika School for the blind and then worked as a telephone operator in Nakuru. Here he came into contact with
the Theosophical Society (TS) over thirty years ago. The TS is an organization that is focused on the
study of all world religions and philosophies but their core belief is "There is no religion higher than truth." Reuben was obviously soul searching during this time in his life and joining the TS was the opening to his life path. After being an active member of the TS for a few years he dedicated his life to the society. He then spent a few years at the TS headquarters in Adyar, India studying and reflecting on spirituality, life and its purpose. Reuben had a fantastic
We are doing a collection for Reuben's family. If you are interested in contributing please call Ananti Shah on 020 8909 9877.
YJ AWARD
In addition to the YJ Team Award, the YJ of Year was
also presented at the AGM. This year the recipient
was Kavit Haria, 17years old. Kavit has actively been involved with Young Jains since his cousin Punit (Volunteers Officer) encourage Kavit to attend the Tasting The Mango convention in 2002. Kavit is always helping out on teams and also leading various teams. He has been involved with Mahavir Jayanti, Paryushan and choose your opportunities. He has written articles for the Young Jains newsletter as well as Jain Spirit. This year he leads the Paryushan team - and only 17!
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