May 2013 by Young Jains of America

Young Jains of America Est. 1991 http://www.yja.org

Edited By: Sejal Dhruva & Sheenika Shah

Young Minds Spring Issue

Jai Jinendra! As we enter into the final few months of our term on the YJA Executive Board, we would like to take a moment to reflect upon the successes from the past few months. Each region held a successful retreat with a staggering number of attendees – both new and returning. We have, to date, hosted 25 different events, ranging from national dinners and social activities, to volunteering at soup kitchens and animal refuge parks. We are very proud and say thank you to our Jain youth for giving back to the community!

Featuring: 2013 JAINA Convention Have you registered for the 2013 JAINA Convention yet? Join over 2,800 people this summer for an unforgettable experience!

In light of the recent tragedies around the world and close to home, the YJA Executive Board offers our prayers and condolences. Our hearts go out to the victims and families of those affected by the tragedies in Newtown, Boston, and India. These events mark yet another significant reason for us to believe in ahimsa.

euismod tristique.

As comedian Patton Oswalt said, "When you spot violence, or intolerance … hatred or ignorance, just look it in the eye and think, 'The good outnumber you, and we always will.'” With that, we enter into the final chapter of our term, our hearts filled with love and optimism. We look forward to the next few months, and hope you do too!

Jainism 101: Back to the Basics You’ve asked, we’ve answered! Take a peek at the most common questions asked by Jain youth about Jainism. 14

euismod tristique.

- Your 2012-2013 YJA Executive Board

YM 2013

May 2013

Young Minds

Inside this Issue:

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7th Annual Northeast/Mid-Atlantic Ski Retreat

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3rd Annual Southeast Region Retreat

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3rd Annual YJA South Retreat

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4th Annual YJA West Retreat

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2013 JAINA Convention

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JAINA/AJC Legislative Internship (JALI)

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Boston Marathon Tragedy

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Poconos Reflections

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YJA Events Photo Recap

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Upcoming Events

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A Hidden Cheat Code to Life

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YJA 2014 Convention

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Jainism 101: Back to the Basics

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The Importance of Community Service

•

Summer Programs

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A Teen Entrepreneur’s Approach to Aparigraha

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Recipe Corner

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Donate

•

Letter from the Co-Chairs

Young Minds

May 2013

7th Annual Northeast/ Mid-Atlantic Poconos Ski Retreat By: Pooja Nagda (Northeast Regional Coordinator)

Prerak Adhuria (Mid-Atlantic Regional Coordinator)

This past President’s Day weekend from February 16-18, 2013, the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic regions held the 7th Annual Poconos Ski Retreat at the newly renovated, beautiful Bushkill Inn & Conference Center in Bushkill, PA. With icebreaker activities upon arrival Saturday afternoon, the 70 attendees bonded over the Indian game of Kho, and also ate chutney sandwiches and Jain bhel. Our first session was led by Paras and Kushal Doshi, who provided insight on Man, Vachan, and Kaya using their personal experiences on applying Jain values in daily life. Everyone then headed out to Alpine Mountain for a fun evening of snow tubing! A Jain/vegan Mexican dinner was prepared for the evening and enjoyed by all. The attendees then relaxed, played card and group activity games for the remainder of the night. The second day of the Poconos Retreat began with yoga in the morning followed by breakfast. Afterwards, Chintav Shah presented a deep, resounding session entitled “Meditation, Appreciation and the Jain Way of Life” based on the Navkar Mantra, enlightening everyone on the correct methods of Navkar Mantra recitation and our inner thought process. Later, most of the attendees went back to Alpine for

skiing or snowboarding. After 5 hours of skiing and eating Subway sandwiches, everyone headed back to the Inn for delicious warm Indian food for dinner. The Jain Family Feud session, presented by our own YJA board members, allowed each attendee to actively take part! It was a fun competition that ended with a lot of laughs! Towards the end of the night, everyone relaxed by playing Mafia and other fun games in the Bushkill Inn’s game room. The next morning after closing statements, everyone went back home with smiles on their faces after having an excellent weekend making new friends, enjoying outdoor activities, and learning how to apply Jainism with engaging sessions. It was a weekend to remember and we thank everyone who helped plan and organize this amazing retreat. And, of course, we thank everyone who attended and hope to see you all again next year! To read a recap of the sessions, please visit: http://www.yja.org/resources/education.

May 2013

Young Minds

3rd Annual Southeast Region Retreat By: Akash Shah (Southeast Regional Coordinator)

From March 29-31, 2013, the Southeast Region held its 3rd Annual Retreat at Indian Springs State Park in Flovilla, Georgia. The weekend consisted of wonderful food, sessions, bonding activities, and learning experiences for the 39 people (a record for the Southeast region!) who attended the getaway. After learning about each other through icebreakers on Friday, the attendees ate a Jain taco dinner and played many games of Mafia. The next morning, the group took a walk through the beautiful state park, followed by a yoga session led by several members. After breakfast, the group participated in Hetali Lodaya’s session on Maan, Vachaan, and Kaya, which positively taught the group to think about the way they all act in their respective lives. After eating hoagies for lunch, Paras Vora and Avni Maru led a session on life and interpersonal goals, while relating back to Anekantvad. Afterwards, the afternoon was spent by the springs playing football, ultimate frisbee, and a few games of “Thumbs Up.” The weekend was a powerful and life-changing experience that facilitated thought-provoking discussions, while creating lifelong friendships and countless memories. The sessions gave attendees a wonderful way to reflect on their actions, and plan for the future so they could grow as a person. The outdoor activities led to lots of bonding time that added playfulness to the experience. Whether you wanted to relax and talk, play, or eat, this retreat had it all. Needless to say, the 3rd Annual YJA Southeast Retreat was a success in achieving YJA’s goals as an organization.

Memorable Moments:

Parv Gondalia (North Carolina)

Juhi Shah (Alabama)

Mihir Shah (Cary)

"This was my first retreat and I've already made new friendships that will last a lifetime."

"If the most enjoyable memories were burned into your heart, the Southeast Retreat will forever be with me till the day I die.”

"This retreat helped me explore my life goals through two different and unique sessions, and I had a tremendous amount of fun!”

Young Minds

May 2013

3rd Annual YJA South Retreat By: Trishla Parakh (South Regional Coordinator) The 3rd Annual South Retreat was held on April 5-7, 2013 at The Hollows Resort Text goes here. in Austin, Texas. After the 16 attendees got to know each other through some fun icebreakers on Friday, they enjoyed delicious Jain ice-cream sundaes as dessert and played Mafia. After breakfast the next morning, Mr. Apurva Bhansali led a session, which focused on the topic of what makes oneself a Jain. He requested everyone to close their eyes as he kept throwing different ideas at us (i.e. how much we pray, how much community service we do, etc). Everyone was speechless by the end, lost in their train of thought on how to improve themselves. After eating tacos for lunch, the group headed out for the outdoor activities planned, including a trip to Austin’s Veggie Fest and a hike up the beautiful Mount Bonnell. The scrumptious food at Austin’s Veggie Fest included bhel, Indian food, green juice, vegan cookies, snow cones, and so much more! Later that night, pizzas were made for dinner, and the group participated in Bonita Parikh’s session on an animal debate. The topics for discussion included Jain vs. vegan diets, pet ownership, and what we practice during Paryushan. The final session hosted by Trishla Parakh was on Maan, Vachan, and Kaya, which positively taught the group to think about the way they all act in their respective lives. To end the night (that did not really end), the group pulled an all-nighter with many rounds of cards, Psychiatrist, and Mafia. This year’s retreat also had a few 13-year old future YJAers attend the Veggie Fest and hike portions of the weekend. They, along with the retreat attendees, all enjoyed themselves during the whole weekend and left with new friendships, many memories, and a continued appreciation of YJA’s mission.

Memorable Moments: Naumit Bhandari (San Antonio)

Avni Nandu (Dallas)

Viraj Shah (San Antonio)

“Everything is bigger in Texas, including fun! This was my first time going to a retreat and I was delighted to find that everyone was so friendly and open.”

"You don't understand how appreciative YJA Dallas is of YJA. After the retreat last year, everyone finally bonded. Then after convention, we were inseparable. I love YJA.”

“The retreat was a fun way of getting to meet new people from the south region, making new friends, and playing the different games. Looking forward to the next event!”

May 2013

Young Minds

4th Annual YJA West Retreat By: Pankti Doshi (West Regional Coordinator)

Memorable Moments: Palak Shah (San Jose)

The West region celebrated its 3rd Annual Retreat in Morro Bay, CA from April 5-7, 2013. This fun-filled weekend started with icebreakers where all 12 attendees started to learn more about each other’s backgrounds, interests, and likes. We started the next day by engaging in spiritual prayers, and dived into deep discussions on Anekantvada/5 Samvay and Man, Vachan, Kaya. We then traveled to Morro Rock where we applied our Jain principles in a Photo-Scavenger Hunt, which involved tasks such as writing Jain beliefs in the sand or posing as a Thirthankar. Let’s not forget the delicious food that we ate, including Jain/Vegan pizza, burritos, sandwiches, freshly baked cupcakes, and ice-cream sundaes! Ending the retreat with a Memorabilia session, each individual got the chance to make themselves and their friends friendship bracelets and bands to have something to remind everyone of the bonds they created and the knowledge they attained from that weekend.

“Awsumansingyer and Zupferiftic. Two words you will never find in a dictionary, but will in my vocabulary when describing YJA's West Coast Retreats. Next year just can't come fast enough.”

The youth is where the power lies: it is in their drive, their motivation, and their voices. YJA has provided us with the opportunity to hold these types of events to build a stronger, more unified community. This retreat created a close-knit atmosphere where each person was able to contribute their thoughts, develop and create a plan to reach their short-term and long-term goals, and just lay back and reflect on their lives. The West Region Retreat was an event that truly was memorable in the hearts of the attendees and YJA as a whole.

“I think one of the most rewarding parts of the retreat was everyone's involvement and excitement for the sessions. It was such a good feeling when we all were able to help each other reach goals that either we have achieved or are in the process of achieving. This is one event I will never forget!”

Falguni Gala (Buena Park) “This was my very first YJA retreat and it definitely met my expectations! The food was so yummy and the activities were so fun. My favorite part was getting to bond with Jains from all over California and making new friends. “

Komal Shah (Milpitas)

Young Minds

JAINA/AJC Legislative Internship (JALI) Congratulations and best of luck to Neil Shah of Detroit, MI and Nisha Shah of Boston, MA on being selected for this summer’s JAINA/AJC Legislative Internship (JALI) Program!

May 2013

2013 JAINA Convention: Register Today! The 17th Biennial JAINA Convention is upon us and we want YOU to attend! Join over 2,800 people July 4-7th, 2013 in Novi, Michigan for: 

Spiritual development;

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Educational and social sessions;

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Garba-Raas with Rajiv Pandya;

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Return of the acclaimed “Jains Got Talent”;

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Jain Family Feud competition for youth; and

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Delicious Jain and vegan food!

Neil Shah (MI)

For youth ages 21+ please visit the JNF page for information on sessions and social events. For youth ages 13-20, please visit the Youth Activities page for more information on sessions and social events, or join our Facebook group.

Get ready for Youth Activities programming like you’ve never seen before! See you in July for #JAINA2013!

Nisha Shah (MA)

The JALI Program’s hands-on approach is designed to mentor and cultivate today’s young leaders, strengthen their understanding of the JAINA and AJC and prepare them for future public service opportunities. For more information, please visit: http://www.jaina.org/JALI For more internship and scholarship opportunities, make sure to read page 13 a

May 2013

Young Minds

Boston Marathon Tragedy and Mahavir Jayanti By: Usha Hans Maru

One morning under the blue sky, thousands of people from around the world came together for running, running with each other. Lots of us, in thousands, also got together to cheer. We had water, food, clapping hands, and smiles on our faces. What a sight! People have been running and cheering at the Boston Marathon for years, but this year something very different occurred. Two young men, raised and educated in this same city, exploded bombs. Three people had to face death prematurely. Two hundred sixty-four men, women, and children got hurt, some lost their limbs. Suddenly the whole atmosphere changed under the same blue sky! Lots of us cried, grieved, and blamed the two young men for this horrible act. Thoughts came to mind that these brothers in reality also had the pure, perfect soul within them, full of love, bliss, and peace. The thought of a perfect soul in a person who can perform such a horrible act! Is this possible? We all do small acts of love and hate, day and night, in our thoughts, action, and speech. Somehow we justify them. Do we realize that these thoughts of day and night, good or bad, can accumulate, multiply, and grow within us? On the occasion of Mahaveer’s 2612th birthday celebration, we all should think of his teachings. Mahaveer said: think deep, within. Watch those thoughts, speech, and actions. Observe and realize your pure soul within- full of love and bliss. Separate from worldly feelings. Like the gold in mines is mixed with dirt and stones, with the effort of purification, it can be made pure. Pure gold looks altogether different from the dirt it originated in. In the same way, our pure soul is different from that under outside circumstances and is within us to experience. With profound experiences of his own soul, Mahaveer was able to love Chandanbala, a soft-hearted slave, Chandkoshio, a poisonous snake, and Gautam, a learned noble man. Mahaveer saw the same blissful soul in all. Let us pray for bliss and peace to all of the victims, including the two young men.

Navakār Mantra Ṇamō arihantāṇaṁ I bow to the arihants, destroyers of their inner enemies. Ṇamō siddhāṇaṁ I bow to the siddhas, the liberated souls. Ṇamō āyariyāṇaṁ I bow to the acharyas, the religious leaders. Ṇamō uvajjhāyāṇaṁ I bow to the upadhyays, the religious teachers. Ṇamō lōē savva sāhūṇaṁ I bow to all the sadhus and sadhvis, those who have renounced the worldly life and follow a path of simplicity. sō an haṇamō ārō, savva āva aṇāsaṇō Maṅgalā ṇaṁ a savvēsiṁ, aḍamama havaī maṅgalaṁ This five-fold bow (mantra) destroys all sins and obstacles, and of all auspicious mantras, is the first and foremost one. ----Please take a moment to read the Official Statement by JAINA President Dr. Sushil Jain on the Boston Tragedy. YJA offers its prayers and condolences to the victims and families of those affected by the tragedy at the Boston Marathon. -----

Young Minds

Memorable Moments from the 7th Annual Northeast/ Mid-Atlantic Poconos Ski Retreat: Virag Vora (Foxboro) “The retreat was unforgettable! We were all one huge family there, and we made some lasting memories. I recommend the retreat for anyone able to go!”

Apurvi Mehta (Long Island) “My favorite part of the retreat was Chintav Shah's session about how to actively think about the meaning of each line of the Namokar Mantra while praying.”

Vishruti Shah (Chelmsford) “Poconos was a great way to reconnect with all of the friends we made in YJA and also find some new friends!”

Divyansh Shah (Burlington) “The amount of fun we had skiing and snowboarding, and the amount of knowledge we gained through the informative sessions is incomparable to any other event I've been to!”

Shikha Shah (Rutherford) “Not only did I learn more about Jainism but met amazing people, too! This was by far the most exciting and rewarding weekend of my life and would come back each and every year!”

May 2013

Poconos Reflections By: Shivani Shah Recently, I was lucky to have the opportunity to go to a YJA retreat in Poconos, Pennsylvania. They had multiple sessions that were targeted at Jain youth. One, however, stood out to me. It was a presentation by Chintav Shah on the most basic Jain sutra, the Navkar Mantra. For most Jains, the Navkar Mantra is taught at a very young age. It is engraved in their minds from childhood. Now, if you were to say it at this very moment, what would you think about while saying it? For many, the answer would be different every time they were asked. The sutra has become a blur of words you have been taught to memorize. This defeats the whole purpose of the sutra. The Navkar Mantra is the strongest form of appreciation. Each line in the sutra should have a unique meaning to every person who speaks it. Each of the first four lines in the sutra have more impact than the last four lines combined. Another topic discussed at this session was meditation. The 14 Gunasthanaks, are the 14 stages of spiritual development in Jainism. The first being the lowest, and the 14th being the highest. The first one is Mithya-Drashti Gunasthana, which is wrong faith. The 14th one is Ayogi Kevali Gunasthana, which is an inactive omniscient state of being. This is also known as Siddha. It is a pure soul, with no body. Most of us are only in the second Gunasthanak. This is not because we have wrong faith, but because we have unfocused faith. How do you fix this problem? Meditation. While meditating, your soul overtakes your mind (when done correctly). This can be done by removing all external distractions. This, as you can imagine, is much easier said than done. There are 4 meditative states (Dhyans). They are Shukhla, Dharma, Arta, and Raudra. Shukhla is the highest state. With meditation, you could reach Moksh up to 6 times faster. The concept of “spirituality”, in my opinion, is quite arbitrary. However, Jainism has its own definition. Many of us are so busy with our lives, we forget the small things that make a big difference. Whether it be meditation, or properly saying the Navkar Mantra, these small steps will help you develop spiritually.

May 2013

Young Minds

YJA Events Photo Recap

JCNC Sleepover (West)

YJA Goes to Holi in NYC! (Mid-Atlantic)

Pre-Retreat Dinner – Atlanta (Southeast)

Rock Climbing with YJA Boston (Northeast)

YJA Dallas Bowling Night (South)

YJA West Bowling Night (West)

Pre-Retreat Dinner – Raleigh (Southeast)

YJA So-Cal Takes Over Santa Monica (West)

YJA Goes to Popcorn Park Refuge! (Mid-Atlantic)

Young Minds

May 2013

Walk for Hunger with YJA Boston (Northeast)

Region Websites Visit your region’s website for more information on upcoming events in your area:

Mid-Atlantic http://www.yja.org/regions/ midatlantic

Mid-West

YJA Dinner in Philly! (Mid-Atlantic)

Upcoming Events Mid-Atlantic: 

http://www.yja.org/regions/ northeast

South http://www.yja.org/regions/ south Southeast http://www.yja.org/regions/ southeast

West http://www.yja.org/regions/ west

June 1: YJA Pre-JAINA Jersey Picnic (Edison, NJ) Facebook RSVP Link | Contact: midatlantic@yja.org.

Mid-West: 

June 8: YJA Pre-JAINA Dinner (Chicago, IL) Facebook RSVP Link | Contact: midwest@yja.org.



June 8: YJA Pre-JAINA Dinner (Farmington Hills, MI) Facebook RSVP Link | Contact: midwest@yja.org.

http://www.yja.org/regions/ midwest

Northeast

YJA Board Takes Over Chicago (Mid-West)

South: 

June 29: YJA Pre JAINA Kick-off at Six Flags (Arlington, TX) Facebook RSVP Link | Contact: south@yja.org.

Southeast: 

June 1: Raleigh Goes Mini-Golfing (Raleigh, NC) Facebook RSVP Link | Contact: southeast@yja.org.

West: 

May 18: Hiking with YJA Bay Area (Fremont, CA) Facebook RSVP Link | Contact: west@yja.org.



May 18: YJA SoCal Hikes to the Hollywood Sign (Los Angeles, CA) Facebook RSVP Link | Contact: west@yja.org. Want to see an event in your region? Send us an e-mail to events@yja.org!

May 2013

Young Minds

A Hidden Cheat Code to Life

Contributors:

By: Chintav Shah Many of us have a difficult time applying the Jain knowledge we learn to our daily lives. Mahavir Swami gave us the knowledge, but he left applying it to us. The karma theory, when applied to our daily lives, can lead us to cut sadness and anger entirely.

The karma theory states that all events in our life are governed by and determined by our life are governed by and determined by our past karmas. Take any our past karmas. Take any negative or bad negative or bad event that occurs in one’s life. Any adverse or negative event that occurs in one’s life. Any adverse event that occurs is a result of one of two reasons. The first reason a or negative event that occurs is a result of negative event can occur is if you had previously done something one of two reasons. The first reason a ethically wrong. For example, you copied every single homework negative event can occur is if you had assignment throughout the school year and once the final exam came previously done something ethically wrong. around, you failed miserably. In essence, the reason that you failed your For example, you copied every single finals is because your bad karmas simply came into fruition. The second homework assignment throughout the reason a negative event can occur is to allow you to encounter or school year and once the final exam came experience some other more beneficial event. Here’s an example of this around, you failed miserably. In essence, the reason – imagine you miss the school bus, and end up having to walk to reason that you failed your finals is because school, but on that walk you find a $20 bill on the ground. To sum it up, your bad karmas simply came into fruition. the second reason that a bad event happens is for something even The second reason a negative event can greater to happen in the future. occur is to allow you to encounter or experience some other more beneficial If you are angry, sad, or flustered after every negative event in your life, event. Here’s an example of this reason – you will live miserably. If you accept that it was meant to happen imagine you miss the school bus, and end up because either you brought it upon yourself (reason 1) or because having to walk to school, but on that walk something better is supposed to come out of it (reason 2), then you can you find a $20 bill on the ground. To sum it live a much more happy, satisfied, and calm life. The secret is to tell up, the second reason that a bad event yourself that every negative or unlucky event that occurs in your life happens is for something even greater to from this day forth is because of the second reason. Next time you miss happen in the future. an exit off of the highway, don’t curse your luck; rather, say to yourself, “I just missed this exit because it was meant to happen.” Who knows, If you are angry, sad, or flustered after every maybe missing that exit prevented a traffic jam or a car accident. negative event in your life, you will live miserably. If you accept that it was meant to So I urge you to try this soon - tomorrow - the next time anything happen because either you brought it upon adverse occurs to you, repeat to yourself, "This needs to happen for yourself (reason 1) or because something something beneficial to occur in the future, I just don't know what it is better is supposed to come out of it (reason yet." Get this idea through your brain from this day forth, and your 2), then you can live a much more happy, outlook on life will change extraordinarily. Avoid the immediate anger satisfied, and calm life. The secret is to tell and sadness at all costs; in fact, smile that the experience occurred and yourself that every negative or unlucky event people will begin to admire you. that occurs in your life from this day forth is because of the second reason. Next time you Every human being must face pain, but he is judged by how he reacts to miss an exit off of the highway, don’t curse it. your luck; rather, say to yourself, “I just missed this exit because it was meant to happen.” Who knows, maybe missing that exit prevented a traffic jam or a car accident.

We would like to thank the following article writers and contributors to this quarter’s issue of Young Minds: Akash Shah Chintav Shah Pankti Doshi Paras Vora Parth Savla Poojan Mehta Prerak Adhuria Priyal Gandhi Priyanka Shah Shivani Shah Trishla Parakh Usha Hans Maru ----

With special thanks to: Apurvi Mehta For editing each article; and

Bonita Parikh For selecting all photographs used. ----

Interested in contributing to the next issue of Young Minds? Visit our website for more information:

http://www.yja.org/publications/ youngminds

Young Minds

May 2013

Help Bring YJA 2014 to YOUR City!

@YJATweets

wetet

Who's excited for #yja14? We're in Phase 2 of the bid process and the following cities have bid packets in hand:

Boston, MA

Follow YJA on Twitter

Houston, TX New York, NY Los Angeles/Orange County, CA San Francisco/San Jose, CA Washington, D.C. Help your city win the bid by joining your city’s bid committee team! If you’re interesting in joining forces with the aforementioned cities, please contact the following: Boston, MA Houston, TX New York, NY Los Angeles/Orange County, CA San Francisco/San Jose, CA Washington, D.C.

Pooja - jhaveripn@yahoo.com projects@yja.org Sagar - sagar.k.khona@gmail.com Sanket - smehta28@gmail.com Komal - komalrs@yahoo.com Aanal - aanal_gurl98@yahoo.com

Are you a fan of the Twittersphere? Follow us and stay on top of all the news and updates you need to know about YJA! Tweet us your ideas, suggestions, questions, or just send us some #yjalove. Here’s what some of our followers are saying about YJA:

isha h @Not2Shabbbyy “400th goes out to all the new friendships made and old ones strengthened #poco13 #yjalove”

Amit @ashah611 “YJA has introduced me to my best friends! Because of #YJA I'm here now! Thanks to meeting some amazing people & to my roots.”

Poojan @PoojanMehta97 ”Nights like these remind me why I love YJA. It’s the people, dedication, and will to make Jainism a lifestyle.”

4 Or email projects@yja.org for more information. Super good luck to all bid committee teams!

And may the odds be ever in your favor.

Sejal @SejalDhruva ”Amazed at the things that YJA does. I love being part of such an amazing organization :) #yjalove”

May 2013

Young Minds

Jainism 101: Back to the Basics Earlier this year, we sent out a survey asking Jain youth what questions they had about Jainism. Below are some of the most popular questions, answered by our Director of Education, Priyal Gandhi:

Q: What prayers can we say in the temple? A: You can say anything you want that does not ask tirthankar bhagwan for some material or worldly gain. Some sects definitely encourage khamsamnas and chaityavandan, however.

Q: What are some ways to be Jain in college? A: Join YJA, a local Jain group at your college/university, or start one of your own. Have monthly get-togethers to talk about Jain topics and/or prayers.

Q: Why do we use kesar while doing pooja? A: Kesar (Chandan, or sandalwood), symbolizes tranquility of the soul. While using chandan, one should focus on overcoming the miseries of the world through Samyak Jnan (right knowledge).

Have a question? E-mail us at education@yja.org.

The Importance of Community Service By: Paras Vora One month ago, after spending over 24 hours at my college’s annual Relay For Life, I walked back to my dorm room with a sense of accomplishment (along with a little bit of delirium). We had just raised over $200,000 to help fund cancer research, prevention programs, and patient support/treatment programs. I didn't get paid for this. I didn't win any prizes, nor did I have any agenda for “Why I Relay: ‘For a world making this event successful. I felt with more birthdays.’” obligated to help support a cause that I knew would make a difference in people's lives. In some ways, this is how I practice Jainism in my everyday life. I view community service as an act of selfless kindness, which follows the Jain principle of ahimsa. Through volunteering, I have found a way to help those who do not have the means to help themselves. The commitment I have made to Relay For Life allows me to directly give back to the community, since a large percentage of the funds raised go directly towards patient care and treatment, while also giving me a sense of growth. Being able to see the multiple perspectives of cancer patients, their caregivers, and their loved ones has been enlightening for me. At the start of each Relay there is a survivor’s lap; cancer survivors and their caretakers take a lap across the track in order to commemorate their strength and support in fighting cancer. This one lap may be the biggest reason I volunteer at Relay For Life. Each year this moment brings a smile to my face as I realize that an event that changed my life so profoundly was able to change the lives of so many. This is just one of many examples for why community service is important to me. It is very easy to get involved and volunteer; most soup kitchens and homeless shelters are in need of volunteers, and there are chapters of major non-profit organizations in almost every area. If your organization of choice is not in your area, take the initiative to start a local chapter! I hope that your experience with community service is as fulfilling as mine.

Young Minds

May 2013

Summer Programs 2013

JAINA Summer Internship Program (JASI)

The JAINA Summer Internship (JASI) is a full-time, intensive internship offering U.S. undergraduate and graduate students a chance to work with a servicebased community organization in a start-up environment. JASI interns receive hands-on experience that provides professional and personal growth in the areas of non-profit project management, IT support, and social networking/community building, as well as rewarding opportunities to support the global Jain community.

Come study Jainism in Claremont this summer. The week-long program will include academic sessions featuring noted scholars in the field of Jainism peaking on the origins and culture of the faith tradition. It will also provide an opportunity for participants to socialize with their peers and become more deeply involved in the Jain community with visits to the Jain Center of Southern California and other fun activities planned for the week. More information can be found online at: http://www.jaina.org/summercamp.

More information can be found online at: http://www.jaina.org/internship.

JAINA Academic Scholarship Program The JAINA Academic Scholarship program (JASP) will provide educational scholarships to high school seniors going into college who wish to pursue higher learning in the fields of arts, science, engineering and literature. At this time JAINA will not provide fellowships or loans. The scholarship award will be known as the need-based JAINA Academic Scholarship Award (JASP). More information can be found online at: http://www.jaina.org/scholarship.

Jain Summer Camp

Claremont International Jain Conference Claremont Lincoln University is an inter-religious university where the religions and value-based communities of the world meet to study, form friendships, and engage in activism. Thanks to generous support from the Jain community, Claremont Lincolnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center for Jain Studies is able to host a major international conference every summer. This year, the August 23-24 conference will focus on womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perspectives in the Dharma tradition. We invite you to join us! More information can be found online at: http://www.jaina.org/womensconference.

May 2013

Young Minds

A Teen Entrepreneur’s Approach to Aparigraha By: Poojan Mehta This last year has been hectic for me, with starting my own business, lots of amazing YJA work, and high school. I find myself reflecting on how I can use the values that I have been brought up with to improve my life and others’ lives on a daily basis. I consider Jainism my way of life, and find myself religiously confused like many first-generation Jain IndianAmericans. One of the Jain values I adhere to is aparigraha, which means living within your means and being simple in life. Even though I may be influenced by current society, materialistic pleasure, and peers, I try to control how much I own and how much I consume. As a high school sophomore, I am always influenced by new trends, but find myself straying in order to pursue my own passions. I tangle with the materialistic aspect of aparigraha, but I’ve been able to control my technological and intangible wants because of my thinking.

As a young entrepreneur, I struggle with keeping my vision when my ideas are challenged, especially when the challengers are older and wiser than me. The entrepreneurial society consists of of very verypassionate passionatepeople, myself included. However, takes its toll on the values people, passion myself sometimes included. we possess. Trying to stay calm However, passion sometimeswhen others challenge my passion, is something that I work on takes its vision, toll onand thedirection, values we every day,Trying along to withstay approaching on-the-spot business possess. calm decisions with composure. when others challenge my passion, vision, is but I try to spend an I spend my daysand likedirection, most teens, something that I work on every hour reflecting on my decisions, values, and daily actions. day, along with approaching on- someone or something in If I find something I did affected the-spot business decisions with a negative way, I try to change it the very next day, and composure. consequently try to make it better. I live my life on Jain

principles, even when many of them are challenged, and I spend my days like any other try to change the world while doing so, one day at a time teen, but I try to spend an hour reflecting on my decisions, As a young entrepreneur, I struggle with keeping my values, and daily actions. If I find vision when my ideas are challenged, especially when that something I did affected the challengers are older and wiser than myself. The someone or something in a entrepreneurial society consists of very passionate “NOGO (No Onion-No Garlic) Pesto”negative by: Priyanka way, I A. tryShah to change | Pinki’s it Palate people, myself included. However, passion sometimes the very next day, and takes Trying to stay Tips: its toll on the values we possess.Ingredients (Con’t):consequently try Directions: to make it calm when others challenge my passion, vision, and Some of my favorite greens are:  1/4 to 1/3 Cup of your choice to a food better. I live ofmy life Add on ingredients Jain direction, is something that I work on every day, along nuts; processor in the order as listed principles, even when many of Basil,approaching Kale, Cilantro, Parsley, Arugula with on-the-spot business decisions with them areItalian challenged, try to toa smooth paste. If  2-3 Tbsp dried Oregano,  and Blend Kale & Parsley, Kale & Basil & composure. change the world while doing Seasoning, blending gets difficult, add Cilantro, or Arugula Basilteen, but I try I spend my days like any & other to spendor Zaatar; so, one day at a time ingredients slowly with olive oil  1/2 Cupdaily of freshly grated an hour reflecting on my decisions, values, and to make it easier to blend. Parmesan-Reggiano or Romano actions. If I find that something I did affected someone Some of my favorite nuts to use are: cheeseit (without animal rennet); And it is as easy as that! or something in a negative way, I try to change the Walnuts, Almonds, Pine Nuts, very next day, and consequently try to make it better. 1 Tsp red chili powder if you Macadamia Nuts or I live my life on Jain principles, even when many would likeofto add a spicy kick; Marcona Almonds them are challenged, and try to change theCup world  1/2 of Extra Virgin Olive Oil; while doing so, one day at a time.  Lemon juice (to taste –better if Ingredients: using Kale/Arugula  3 cups of your favorite greens, combinations); and either one type or a mix of a  Salt and ground black pepper to few- chopped; taste (approx. 1 Tsp for each).

Recipe Corner

For more delicious, Jain friendly recipes, please visit Priyanka’s blog: http://pinkispalate.wordpress.com/

Young Minds

May 2013

Help Support YJA Please Make a Contribution to YJA Today to Pass Jain Principles & Practices onto the Next Generation of Youth! Jai Jinendra! The Executive Board for Young Jains of America (YJA) plans to be very active in bringing Jain principles to youth across the country. We would like to take this opportunity to briefly discuss our current projects and how they will make a difference to the YJA community:     

Monthly Webinars – Educate and raise awareness about Jain principles and ideals and address youth problems, difficulties, and concerns. Website Maintenance – Continue to develop a professional website for Jain youth and create a forum to share Jain principles and values. Regional Retreats – Weekend retreats held in each region to instill a sense of religious and cultural pride among Jain youth. Community Volunteering – Organize volunteering events, such as Relay for Life and assistance at soup kitchens to allow youth to participate in charitable community activities. National Dinners – Encourage the development of friendships with Jain youth in their local cities, while conversing about real-life topics relating to Jainism over a delicious meal.

With the support of donors like you, YJA has grown to be the largest Jain youth organization in the world. For the YJA Executive Board, it is an honor to be a part of a group that motivates and inspires countless lives. Please consider supporting our efforts with a personal contribution to YJA today. A contribution of any amount will provide tremendous support to instill a sense of among youth about their Jain heritage. The ultimate goal of the YJA Executive Board is to prepare today's Jain youth to become tomorrow's Jain leaders. Not only do we appreciate your donations, but the fundraising team would like to hear from you! Please e-mail fundraising@yja.org with your comments or suggestions for improvement by YJA. If you have any questions regarding Young Minds, please e-mail youngminds@yja.org. We thank you for your wonderful contribution! -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Young Jains of America Contribution Form *You can make a contribution by credit or debit card at https://www.yja.org/donation/donation.php* Full Name: ___________________________________________________________ Company Name (Optional): ___________________________________________________________ Address: _______________________________ City: ____________ ST: ____ Zip: ___________ Daytime Phone: (______)______________ Evening Phone: (______)_____________________ Email Address: __________________________ Please make your check payable to Young Jains of America and mail it to: Young Jains of America c/o Sheenika Shah P.O Box 1312 Brea, CA 92823

Jai Jinendra Than you for reading this quarter’s issue of Young Minds! We ho e you enjoyed reading it as much as we enjoyed editing and preparing it. Sheenika and I would like to extend our gratitude to our current Executive Board, our Board of Trustees, and the JAINA Executive Committee, for their unconditional support, encouragement and efforts to make this year as successful as it has been. This is, without a dou t, a team effort and we ouldn’t do it without you all. We are looking forward to a very successful next few months – we ho e you’re ready for what we have in store for you! With #yjalove, -Sejal Dhruva & Sheenika Shah Your 2012-2013 Co-Chairs May 2013

Young Minds

Young Jains of America Est. 1991 http://www.yja.org

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