Feeling! Feeling life, ours and all life that is around us. That’s why I love it. Jainism is so uncomplicated because you can live it, and be practicing Jainism, without the need of the formality of rituals. Which is not a bad thing if you know how, but if you do not, then Jainism doesn’t expect it of you. Jainism basically ties everything to its core principles of Ahimsa, or Non-violence. That is the premise of everything it entails. I just love that simplicity factor. Besides, they have Samanijis, who I just adore. It’s so easy to be in so much awe of them, hold them in reverence and generally feeling a calming presence of divinity when I’m with them.
This morning as I drove to an appointment with Dr. Lisa, I saw a rather large road kill on Wekiva Springs Road. Couldn’t tell what it was, but I instantly felt very sad. Instinctively, I started reciting the Navkar Mantra, and was going to say it five times, for this poor dead animal. For his ‘gati’ which is a word I’ve heard used in such circumstances, but I’m not entirely sure about its accurate meaning. Anyway, I just continued to recite it, even after the 5 times was over.
Whenever I say the Navkar Mantra for anyone or anything else, it’s because I’m reminded of an incident that occurred on John Young Parkway. I had just picked up the Samanijis and was driving them somewhere, when a truck showed up directly in front of us. It was filled with large logs of wood, big and tall tree trucks, felled and being hauled away. Samaniji Jin Pragyaji ji, let out a painful sigh and I could hear it echo in my heart. I feel that same way about trees, and all plants actually. She was distressed to see these grand old trees felled for whatever reason. It was healthy wood too, and one the rings were clearly visible in the wood. I was also sad. She started chanting the Navkar Mantra for them, and I did too. I’m so glad I had the opportunity to learn something so important, it’s also a ritual of sorts.
Last summer in Sweden, a little bird came and dashed into the glass door of the living room, and fell to the ground. Another bird tried to peck at it and revive it, but couldn’t. Then I stepped in and tried to give it reiki, brought water for it, but it was in too much distress. One of its wings had broken off. Finally it just closed its eyes and lay still. I buried it in the flower beds, and recited the Navkar Mantra for it.
Just a simple act, and yet it’s so powerful. It is empowering, in the sense that even when you cannot do anything for someone to save their life, you can say the Navkar mantra for them.
There was so much more to chat about, but as always, I leave the blogging to the last. Another day, another night. Not asking for sweet dreams, but just a good night.
Veenu Banga
10:44pm
June 3rd, 2025.
