September 2014

Young Minds

Fall 2014

Young Jains of America Est. 1991

Young Minds

http://www.yja.org

Fall 2014 Edited by: Sonny Shah

Letter from the Editor Jai Jinendra!

Michchami Dukkadam.

Paryushan and Das Lakshan have just completed and in honor of that, we, the Young Jains of America, want to apologize for any harm we may have committed in any form.

This past July, we had our largest YJA Convention take place in our nation’s capital, Washington, D.C. Our theme, Today’s Learners, Tomorrow’s Leaders, embodies the spirit of the Young Jain community in the United States. This is said not just from the leadership that has led YJA in the past, but from the interest of the youth through the formation of the newest executive board.

2006 was the first YJA Convention I attended. At that moment, never would I have imagined that I would play such an important role for YJA by being on the

executive board. I imagine similar situations for the newly elected board.

I am so proud of the accomplishments that my fellow board members have made. From the superb guidance of the Co-chairs, the inspirational organization of the Directors and the awesome creativity of the Regional Coordinators.

These are few of the reasons why there will never stop being leaders in the Jain Community. Congratulations to the outgoing E-board and best of luck to the new E-board!

To all the writers and readers of Young Minds, thank you for sharing your stories with the world and stay amazing!

Sincerely, Sonny Shah 2013-2014 Director of Publications

Meet the 2014 – 2015 YJA Executive Board Elections have just completed and our new board is excited to be announced! Find out who the new co-chairs, directors and regional coordinators are!

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2013 – 2014 Executive Board Reflections What is each board member thankful for this past year by being a leader in the Jain community?

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In this Issue: 

Na Hum--The Power of 'Not' in Today's World

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

Events Recap

4



2014 - 2015 YJA Executive Board Members

5



Northeast / Mid-Atlantic Poconos Retreat Reflection 6



Poconos Retreat Attendee Reflection

6



2013 – 2014 E-Board Reflections

7



4th Annual YJA South Retreat Reflection

9



A Jain Halloween

10



2014 South Retreat Recap

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

Jainism 101

11



West Retreat Reflection

12



West Retreat Attendee Reflection

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

Recipe Corner – Vegan Pumpkin Walnut Bread

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

Jain Leadership Fellows Program

14



2015 JAINA Convention

15



Donate

17



Letter from the Co-Chairs

18

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Na Hum--The Power of 'Not' in Today's World by

Rishil Mehta “So, what exactly is this ‘Jainism’ all about?”

boring and conventional. Rules and regulations, frankly, suck.

Yes. The question I’ve been waiting for!

Like a martial artist instinctively able to dodge a projectile thrown their way, I reflexively launch into my well-rehearsed Jain elevator speech. I begin, of course, with the bit about how my religion is more of a way of life, then deftly transition into a brief exposition of my vegetarian values and finally swoop in for the (proverbial) kill:

On a more serious note, the ‘no’ mentality seems to suggest a propensity towards “non-action”. In our fast-paced, success-oriented society, the idea that we should simply stand around and wait for the world to happen to us appears anachronistic.

“But really,” I say glibly, “most of our philosophy resides in our adherence to the three “A’s”: ahimsa, aparigraha, and anekantavada.

Non-violence, nonpossessiveness, and non-absolutism.”

I stop and wait eagerly for the response.

There’s a moment of silence, which I assume can only be a natural reaction to my awesome triple-A alliteration.

But contrary to my expectations, she turns to me, laughs a little bit, and replies, “The three ‘A’s? Sounds more like the three ‘nots’ to me.”

Whoa. Hadn’t thought of it that way before. As I go home, I turn over that new concept in my head. She is right— Jainism is the religion of the ‘nots’. From the moment we step into pathshala, we are bombarded by strict commandments:

I’ve thought about this aspect of our religion intensely over the past few years.

Although the initial reaction to the idea of ‘not’ in our society is strongly negative, I’m here to argue that ‘not’ is exactly what we need.

At its core, our religion values restraint and simplicity. I, like many of you, had the wonderful opportunity to hear Nimo Patel speak at the YJA Convention in July. His story was equal parts touching and equal parts contrarian. After all, Nimo ‘had’ everything. A fancy business degree, resounding success, and lots of money. And yet, despite living the life of his dreams, he still spent his nights wondering, “Is this it?” When he addressed us young Jains, he wasn’t hotshot millionaire Nimesh Patel, but Nimo, speaking to us about small acts of kindness and empty hands.

Don’t eat meat.

Don’t get angry.

Don’t have ego.

Don’t hurt people.

Don’t, don’t, don’t.

For Gurudev Chitrabhanuji, a moment of awakening came in the form of hearing about the death of Aditya Birla, one of India’s premier industrialists. On the plane from India to Baltimore flew one of the richest and most influential visionaries of 20th century India. On the plane back, there was only a pile of ashes, the money and fame forgotten.

As young Jains of the 21st century, it’s easy to view this ‘not’ mentality with disdain. After all, it sounds pretty lame.

Isn’t it an accepted truth that the worst words a parent can hear from their toddler’s mouth is a petulant “NO!”? The whole concept of ‘no’ is, to my teen mind,

Nimo and Chitrabhanuji serve as living reminders that no matter how much we may acquire or how much we do, our fame and fortunes are merely castles in the sand waiting to fall apart at the first signs of illness, old age, or death.

However, Jainism proposes a novel

solution: to cut down, simplify, reject and realign. These attributes are the essence of our religion’s fascination with the idea of ‘not’. It is as we say in pratikraman: na hum. I am ‘not’ that. I refuse to align myself with violence, greed and dogma because they are not the secret to happiness in our world.

That does not mean that we can simply sit and wait for the world to happen to us, it’s just that we need to temper our actions with a foundation of restraint.

The two examples above are wonderful examples of iconoclasts who have not been afraid to challenge the status quo.

While Nimo has turned away from the glitz and glamour of our “American” life to help slum children and spread the message of kindness, Gurudev’s veganism movement has strived to reassess how our enduring values can help us navigate modern times. Some may argue that a religion that does not ‘actively’ proselytize is doomed to fade away. However, Nimo and Gurudev provide my strongest defense against this mistaken theory. Although Jainism is not the only answer to our modern problems, it certainly is a solution. And all we need to do is live our Jain ideals to become role models and forces for good, and the world will watch and be inspired.

Non-violence.

Non-possessiveness.

Non-absolutism.

So hum.

That is who I am.

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Region Websites Mid-Atlantic: http://www.yja.org/regions/midatlantic Mid-West: http://www.yja.org/regions/midwest Northeast: 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

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Northeast / Mid-Atlantic Poconos Retreat Reflection by

Sneha Parikh, Northeast RC and Kunal Shah, Mid-Atlantic RC This year’s retreat was an amazing experience for me. I have never been to a Poconos Retreat before, and organizing and attending just made me that much more excited for the convention! From hanging out with a great group of people, to the skiing, to Minute to Win it, I could not have asked for a better weekend. A big thank you to all the attendees and to everyone who helped plan and volunteer!

As I drove with a van completely filled with groceries, I grew more and more excited. This was not only my first Poconos retreat, but one I helped organize, so I was eager to start the weekend. During the weekend of February 14th-16th, over 70 Mid-Atlantic and Northeast YJAers gathered for the 8th annual Mid-Atlantic/Northeast Poconos Retreat. Highlights of the weekend included tasty food, educational sessions, and the first ever Minute to Win It. The first day, we dove right into the first session, a career panel, where our panel of professionals talked about their careers and answered questions. Unfortunately, due to weather conditions, snow-tubing was cancelled.

However, all was not lost, as many went outside to play in the snow, make snow angels, and compete in a free-for-all snowball fight. Hungry from playing

subs and bhel, it was time to hit ski slopes. Once it became dark, the attendees headed back for a delicious Indian dinner. Filled with good food, the attendees gathered for the first ever Minute to Win It session hosted by Bonita Parikh, Aanal Gandhi, and Ravi Doshi.

Attendees were split up into random groups and participated in a range of activities from making a group dance to dressing a teammate up the fastest.

However, the night was far from overthere was still a surprise dance party to finish off the night and lots of games.

outside, the attendees ate a homemade Mexican dinner.

The next day, the morning highlight wash Bollywood Aerobics, where attendees danced and grooved to Balam Pichkari. After breakfast, Mahima Shah hosted the educational session “Knowledge, Understanding, and the Application of a Jain Way of Life.” The attendees learned about proper decorum while in temple, engineering their own divinity, and more, while getting the chance to perform fun skits. After eating

The following day was filled with sad goodbyes, but newly forged friendships, and quality stories for the trip home.

Growing up in a small Jain community from Pittsburgh, I did not have many Jain friends. That changed during this weekend. I met so many wonderful people, and I couldn’t believe what I had been missing out on these past few years.

From playing in the snow to making an improv dance, this was one of the most fun experiences I have had.

I had a lot of fun planning this event, and I wish I could name every person that helped make this event a success, but special shoutouts to my fellow Regional Coordinator, Sneha, and our amazing Director of Events, Bonita! It couldn’t have been possible without them.

Poconos Retreat Attendee Reflection by

Prateet Shah

After attending Poconos for the second year in a row, it is safe to say that the weekend was nothing short of what was expected. From an awesome time on the ski slopes, to the exciting Minute to Win It challenges and interactive sessions, I can easily say the fun really never stopped. While the weekend allowed me to catch up with old friends, it also gave me the chance meet some new and amazing people that I looked forward to meeting again in July. Although leaving on the last day was hard, Poconos left me feeling more than excited for all the fun times in store at YJA 2014 in Washington DC! Special shout out to Sneha, Bonita, and Kunal Shah (20) and the rest of the YJA Board for organizing such an enjoyable retreat!

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“It was an honor to serve as the Co-Chair for YJA during this past year. I'm thankful to have been a part of such a historical year for YJA, from an amazing convention to receiving a letter from President Obama to being featured in Times Square, but nothing was more special than sharing the amazing journey with my fellow Boardies!” – Parag Parekh, Co-Chair

"Has it really been three years since I first joined YJA board?! I couldn't have asked for a more meaningful year with my YJA family. Thank you to everyone for the memories, the laughter and the unconditional #yjalove.

My life is better with you all being a part of it." – Sejal Dhruva, Co-Chair

“I'm thankful for YJA Board helping me grow as a leader and a person. I'll never forget the wonderful memories!” – Priyal Gandhi, Director of Education

“I am thankful for three years of non-stop laughter, incomparable leadership, and everlasting memories. Much love to everyone that made it happen!” – Bonita Parikh, Director of Events

“I had an amazing time on board this year! Huge thanks to my fellow boardies for an unbelievably successful year.

I cannot wait to see what YJA has in store for the future.”

– Neeketa Sheth, Director of Finance

"Thank you to my fellow Boardies and Fundraising Local Representatives for the incredible journey. We proved that hard work always pays off!" – Sunny Dharod, Director of Fundraising

“Being on YJA board gave me the opportunity to meet and work with some of the most passionate Jain people I've ever met. The team experience of being on YJA is what makes it so special, because everyone around you only makes you better - spiritually, professionally, and socially. I'm truly thankful for being able to be part of this team of people that are so amazing.” – Ankit Shah, Director of IT

"It has been an incredible year, filled with so many exciting accomplishments, laughter and hilarious games of Mafia.

Thanks for the memories!" – Mayha Parikh, Director of Project Development

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“Being on board this year was by far the best thing I had done.

I've made friends, but better yet I have a family that I'm closer to then anything.” – Amit Shah, Director of Public Relations

“I am thankful for all the friends I have created through being on the board and the experiences I have gained! I would have never thought I would be able to serve the greater Jain community as I had this year! Thank you and best of luck to the incoming YJA executive board!” – Sonny Shah, Director of Publications

"Thank you everyone for an amazing year and unforgettable experience! Being a part of the YJA Board has changed my life and given me a new family. I had an awesome time serving you as the MidAtlantic RC this year. Forever #yjalove!” – Kunal Shah, Mid-Atlantic RC

"I am thankful for a wonderful YJA board that taught me about philosophy and friendship and have become my new family. I will love them forever and ever." – Shikhar Shah, Mid-West RC

“I am thankful for the good friends, the lifetime of memories, and the chance to serve the Jain community! Thank you!” – Sneha Parikh, Northeast RC

“I am grateful for the opportunity to be a board member this past year. It brought me closer to my religion, Jainism, and I have made so many dear friends that who are like family to me! I wish the next board the best of luck!” – Viraj Mehta, South RC

“I am thankful for being able to bring together Jain youth from all over the southeast region and building up our Southeast pride. This past year has been an unbelievable experience and I am also thankful for being a part of an amazing YJA family.” – Jinen Shah, Southeast RC

“I am thankful for everything YJA has given me - a new family of friends, making me a better person and most of all, keeping me in touch with my roots of Jainism. Thank you!” – Khushali Gala, West RC

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4th Annual YJA South Retreat Reflection

by Viraj

Mehta, South RC

The 4th Annual South Retreat was held at Guadalupe River Homes in New Braunfels, Texas. We had two cabin houses rented on the property, and the house had access to a beautiful yard in the back. The retreat started the evening of Friday, March 15th. The attendees drove from Austin, College Station, Houston, and San Antonio to get to the retreat. After all the attendees had arrived, we headed to the backyard to enjoy the beautiful weather and kick start our retreat. We started out with introducing ourselves, where we were from, and what we did. This was followed by some icebreaker sessions where everyone shared an embarrassing story and we ensured that everyone had a good laugh while getting to know each other. The icebreaker sessions were followed by playing Heads Up and a round of Mafia before it was time to call it a night to get some rest for the activities planned for Saturday.

We started our day on Saturday with some delicious pancakes and smoothies for breakfast. After getting ready and doing morning prayers, we had our first session – Jainism 2.0, hosted by Bonita Parikh. The attendees were set up in groups to discuss topics of Chovihar, Mahavir Jayanti, Gheeboli, Boiled Water, Candles, and Stavans. After team discussions, the session was open for all attendees to share their opinion on these topics. Attendees discussed what they

liked about the different topics, what they would like to change, and how the new generation can do things differently.

The first session was followed by having Subway for lunch and then a 30-minute ride to the Natural Bridge Caverns, discovered by four college students in 1960 and one of the top attractions in Texas. The 70-minute Hidden Passages guided tour took us through the caves, with the guide explaining the history of the caves, the structure of the caves, and the challenges faced by the explorers. We then headed to the park to play a round of Ultimate Frisbee, enjoying another afternoon of beautiful weather.

We headed back to the house after some quality physical exercise to get ready for the festivities of the night. First up was the Mexican dinner – nacho chips, salsa, and burritos. We had all the attendees help out with the different tasks of cooking, cleaning, and washing. After dinner, we headed to the back yard to have our next session, Party Like a Jain, in front of a bonfire. The session was set up as an open discussion where each attendee spoke about their take on different topics which challenge our Jain principles, like interracial dating, media and social pressure on items considered taboo. At the end of the session, each attendee took a pledge on one thing they want to improve about themselves,

change, or quit. After an hour and half of discussions, we headed back indoors to enjoy the remainder of the night, playing games like Mafia and Psychiatrist.

Sunday was the last day of the retreat. As the sun came up, and it was time to pack and check out. Everyone reflected on how quickly the time had gone by. As we had breakfast and cleaned the house, the mood was somber. The retreat provided an opportunity for everyone to make new friends. We had a good mix of people our first attendee from outside the South Region, two non-Jain attendees, attendees from different age groups, and first-time attendees. Each and every attendee made at least a new friend, and saying goodbye at the end of the retreat wasn’t easy.

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A Jain Halloween by

Nishi Shah

“Jai Jinendra,” children say as they walk with their parents, gathering school supplies for the upcoming school year.

Pencils? Check. Erasers? Check.

Backpacks and lunch boxes? Check. All of these items, plus countless other school necessities, are given out to Jain children each year during Paryushan as a part of the annual ‘Stationary Distribution’ organized to promote literacy and education.

As someone who will be starting her senior year, I can say that I have been to almost every single Stationary Distribution our Jain center has hosted since I started kindergarten. As an elementary school student, it was fun to gather supplies, and it almost felt like an early version of Halloween. The only difference was that the candy had been replaced by paper and pens and “Trickor-Treat” had been replaced by “Jai Jinendra.” As I grew older, I began understanding the importance of this practice, and had more fun handing out whatever my family had decided to sponsor in that particular year to the young children who were just starting to experience the ‘Jain Halloween’ for the first time. As someone giving out the supplies, the “gyan daan” I had just done was much more rewarding that handing out candy on a cold October evening.

Each year, no matter how I participated in Stationary Distribution, the experience has driven me to get ready for the upcoming school year, and want to learn and use up the new supplies I’ve received.

I can only hope that the other children who come to get supplies feel the same motivation that I do with regards to their education, which, after all, is what the purpose of the distribution is. However, no matter what the outcome is, the Stationary Distribution is a great way for all Jain kids to connect with their culture

and faith during one of the most auspicious times of the year, Paryushan.

Navkār 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. Ēsōpan̄ chaṇamōkkārō, savvapāvappaṇāsaṇō Maṅgalā ṇaṁ ca savvēsiṁ, paḍamama havaī maṅgalaṁ This five-fold bow (mantra) destroys all sins and obstacles, and of all auspicious mantras, is the first and foremost one.

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Jainism 101

by Priyal Gandhi

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2014 South Retreat Recap by

Parasparopagraho Jivanam: All Souls Render Service to One Another This famous phrase in Jainism is one we should all take to heart- while we are solely responsible for our own thoughts, words, and actions, we live in an interdependent world. Our thoughts, words, and actions have the capability to affect all living beings, which is why ecological conservation and environmentalism have a deeper, spiritual meaning in Jainism. Mahavir Swami once said: “One who neglects or disregards the existence of earth, air, water, fire, and vegetation disregards his own existence.” While we often practice ahimsa by not eating meat or avoiding small insects while we walk, this phrase reminds us that we are one with nature. Living in harmony with other living beings and nature involves more than just ahimsa: it requires compassion, forgiveness, and self-control. In Jain scriptures, there is another wise saying from Mahavir: “Parigraha sevve attäi karänti pränänam behänam”, which means that nonviolence occurs from our own greed and possessiveness. Recycling, reduced consumption, and reuse of resources are just a few examples of mitigating the greed and possessiveness that cause many environmental issues.

For more content from our Director of Education, check out our webinars here!

Kunal Dagli

As a New Jerseyan, the thought of traveling halfway across the country to attend a YJA retreat sounded absurd. I mean, Mid-Atlantic > every other region, right? We have the Poconos retreat, ‘nuff said. But during the drive home from the Poconos retreat in February, I got a glimpse of what South retreats are like from our South RC, Viraj, and Director of Events, Bonita (both proud Aggies). I’ll be honest, I sometimes thought about checking out another region’s retreat, but always dismissed the idea. But after hearing about what South retreats are like, I was sold and became the second person to register for the retreat.

Sometime after registering, I heard there would be about 30 attendees at the retreat. I misheard; it was 13, not 30. That was one of the biggest differences from the Poconos retreat. The retreat was going to be much smaller, and because of that, I would have a chance to hang out with all of my fellow attendees. This was the thing I was most looking forward to coming into the retreat.

The first day of the retreat was everyone arriving, followed by icebreakers and games. It was at this time that I saw the friendly rivalry between the Aggies and Longhorns (a Texan thing, I guess). The next morning consisted of a session (on Jain rituals and their significance) and yummy pancake breakfast. Needless to say, I was stuffed after devouring the vegan pancakes. That afternoon, we marveled at the beauty of the nearby Natural Bridge Caverns (and even got to experience total darkness). After the caverns, we made our way to a park where we played an intense game of ultimate Frisbee. By the end of the game we all worked up a huge appetite, which was perfect as we had a mouth-

watering Mexican dinner when we got back to the house. That night, while we were playing games after another session (which was on topics like dating and drinking), the girls thought it would be hilarious to play a prank on us guys by hiding our bags (I, of course, didn’t fall for their noble pranking efforts). We bided our time and, with the help of some masks, returned the favor by scaring them later that night. Finally, the next morning, we cleaned up the house as we were ready to depart.

Overall, I really enjoyed this retreat and was glad I made the trip down from New Jersey. Being in the Mid-Atlantic region, I don’t hear much about events outside of my area, and I’m sure it’s similar for people in other regions. There are many fun events that our RCs and LRs are working hard to create all over the country. Outside of conventions, many of us rarely get to meet Jains from other regions, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Rather than just sticking to your own region’s events, I encourage you to try attending an event outside of your region; you will help strengthen the sense of a Jain community, and most of all you’ll get to inspire and be inspired by many cool new people.

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West Retreat Reflection by

Khushali Gala

This year’s West Regional Retreat was a complete success! This was my third retreat, though my first time hosting.

The entire experience, from start to finish, was indescribable. I was lucky to have the chance to spend the entire weekend with some great California Jains with amazing, positive attitudes.

Spending time with them and getting to know them better made the entire weekend an experience of a lifetime one I will hold very close to me. It is truly amazing what we can learn from one another.

before. Our food left everyone happily stuffed. And our activities helped foster new and better friendships. These are the goals of every retreat, and I’m glad to know we surpassed them. I would like to thank everyone who helped with this retreat, as well as my attendees. I can’t wait to see how great next year’s retreat will be!

California and the West Region are very large and spread out. However, the annual retreat is an opportunity for us all to get together, regardless of the distance. Having lived in Southern California for the past few years, but recently moving up to the Bay Area, this was the perfect weekend for me to spend time with my friends from Southern California, and showing them, as well as my new friends, how gorgeous other parts of California are.

Our sessions left everyone with a new bit of Jain knowledge they hadn’t had

#yjalove @YJATweets

Follow YJA on Twitter @YJAtweets 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.

West Retreat Attendee Reflection

by Palak Shah

2014’s Young Jains of America “#WestCoastBestCoast Retreat” was both astounding and inspiring. Not only did it incorporate Jain principles in common situations – getting a pet, consuming dairy – but the weekend also had many nature centered activities, like hiking and chilling on rocks in the middle for the river, which were my favorite parts. The one activity that I do always look forward to is Mafia, and this time was no exception, which is why I was surprised at not only being the only mafia in one round, but that I was never accused of being so – I guess reading all those mystery books do pay off. As in any YJA event, I met many new and old friends that I am excited to see again.

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RECIPE CORNER Vegan Pumpkin Walnut Bread Ingredients:

by Anjali Lalani Directions:

Dry Ingredients:  2 cups unbleached allpurpose flour  1 1/2 cups flour (whole wheat flour or just use allpurpose flour again)  2 cups light brown sugar  1/3 cups white granulated sugar  2 teasp. baking soda  1 teasp. baking powder  1 teasp. salt  1 teasp. nutmeg, finely grated  1 teasp. cinnamon  1 teasp. all spice  1/2 teasp. ground cloves Wet Ingredients:  1 15-oz. can (~2 cups) pumpkin puree  1 cup vegetable oil  1/3 cup maple syrup (or agave nectar)  1/3 cup water Additional Ingredients (optional):  1 cup chopped walnuts  ~1/4 cup shredded coconut  ~1/4 cup chocolate chips

1.

2.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together all the dry ingredients (as listed above).

3. In another smaller mixing bowl, slowly whisk together all the wet ingredients (as indicated above).

4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients sections at a time and fold together using a spatula. Be sure to scrape the bottom of the mixing bowl to ensure that all the dry ingredients are folded in.

5. (optional) Using a spatula fold in the walnuts (saving a few to sprinkle on top before baking), shredded coconut, and chocolate chips.

6. Lightly grease and flour two loaf pans or two 8" round pans (I prefer loaf pans, but ended up using one of each because I only had one loaf pan).

7. Evenly divide and pour the bread dough into both pans.

8. Sprinkle some walnuts on top of the dough.

9. Bake in the oven for 1 hour to 1hr 15min. If you insert a toothpick through the center, it should come out clean.

10. Remove from the oven and let them cool completely. Carefully invert onto a cooling rack or cutting board (you may need to tap the bottom of the pan, the loaf should come out easily).

11. Cut into slices and enjoy!

For more Vegetarian, Vegan and Gluten-Free Recipes from Anjali visit: Vegetarian Gastronomy

CONTRIBUTORS We would like to thank the following article writers and contributors to this quarter’s issue of Young Minds:

Anjali Lalani, Khushali Gala, Kunal Dagli, Kunal Shah, Nishi Shah, Palak Shah, Prateet Shah, Rishil Mehta, Sneha Parikh & Viraj Mehta With special thanks to: Priyal Gandhi & Sejal Dhruva 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://yja.org/young-minds/

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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!

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Young Minds | Fall 2014

18

Jai Jinendra!

Thank you for reading this issue of Young Minds; we hope you enjoyed it as much as we did in preparing it!

In honor of Paryushan and Das Lakshan, if any of us may have said anything or done anything to cause any harm or offense, knowingly or unknowingly, we ask for your forgiveness - Michchami Dukkadam.

As the 2013-2014 YJA Executive Board finishes up its term, Sejal and I would like to reflect on what was certainly a historic year for YJA. There were many significant accomplishments, including, but not limited to, holding the best convention to date, for the first time, in a major metropolitan city, having the fastest selling out convention in YJA’s history, receiving a letter of welcome from President Obama, being featured in Times Square, fundraising over $100,000, having the largest regional retreats to date and having the most collective participation from sanghs across the country. All of this happened because of the guidance we received from our mentors on the JAINA Executive Committee and the YJA Board of Trustees, the generosity of many sanghs, including the Jain Society of Metropolitan Washington, and wonderful supporters such as yourselves - on behalf of the Board, Sejal and I thank each and every single one of you for an amazing year.

Sejal and I would like to give a special thank you to our Boardies, all of whom personified creativity and passion - the past year was an amazing year and we are honored to have shared the journey with you all.

Please join us in welcoming and sending best wishes to the incoming 2014-2015 YJA Executive Board; we know this talented group of individuals will continue to evolve YJA as an even better organization. We also hope everyone continues to practice a Jain way of life and use the lessons learned from this past year to be more active in their communities to instill change.

Please keep in touch!

With #yjalove, Sejal Dhruva & Parag Parekh Your 2013-2014 Co-Chairs

Young Jains of America

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