"Parasparopagraho Jivanam"

I was introduced into this aphorism by Dr.Gyan Jain, a Jainology Professor.  A thought provoking aphorism at this moment while such debate is on about Kudankulam project. My knowledge in Jainism is just 0.001 percent but his spirit has inspired me to learn more of this faith.


The Holy text of Tattvarha Sutra (5.21) states: "parasparopagraho jivanam"  meaning


             "all life is bound together by mutual support and interdependence"


The dictum is "life forms render service to one another".
This offers an alternative to the modern belief of success "survival of the fittest".  


( I am reminded of the story of the crocodile and monkey http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mXuWiTisgBI&feature=related)


All life is interconnected. Every soul influences each other through service -- favorable or unfavorable  beneficial or harmful. Together the souls have to share the pleasure and pain. 
The faith and philosophy of Jainism is described by Shri Arun Kumar Jain as:"Jainism firmly believes that life is sacred irrespective of caste, color, creed or nationality and thus not only physical or mental injury to life should be avoided, but all possible kindness should be shown towards all living beings."
In the opinion of Shri Singhvi L M author of Jain Declaration of Nature: "Jain cosmology  recognizes the fundamental natural phenomenon of symbiosis or mutual dependence which forms the basis of modern day  science of ecology." The philosophy believes all souls are equal irrespective of differences in physical forms and mental capability, ranging from the highest human being to the loveliest living microorganism. Therefore human being must act in a responsible manner and show compassion and forgiveness to all.


Why???


This highest order of  living being (human being) are endowed with all the six senses : seeing , hearing , tasting, smelling , touching an three more elements mind, thinking and EGO.
Human being must be full of equanimity and act responsible towards all life by being compassionate, ego less, fearless, forgiving and rational.


The Chinese Philosopher Confucious teaching "ren" also preaches this. The golden rule of  "ren" is "one should treat other as one would like others to treat oneself." (+form). The same principle also states a silver rule (- form), "one should not treat others in ways that one would not like to be treated."


The Japanese philosophy "Kyosei" also means "living together or symbiosis". (Kyo means working together; sei means life) 
Applying this philosophy as a CSR principle Mr Ryu Zabino, Canon Inc., Japan defines Kyosei as "living and working together  for the common good."


Now the question arises how to apply these principles???


(a) Solution minded: (Be innovative, add value) 


This means : 1. understand everyone's requirements;
                        2. look beyond standards;
                        3. pursue win-win situation;
                       4. understand mutual values.


This does not mean: 1. say yes to everything;
                                     2. disregard regulatory measures;
                                    3. deliver for free;
                                    4. we will go beyond the scope of our activities.


(b) Ownership: (Take responsibility, be proactive and resolve issues)
                     
This means : 1. take charge;
                        2. get to the root and pursue sustainable solutions;
                        3. actively engage to seek ideas and inspiration;
                       4. take ownership of our mistakes.

This does not mean: 1. ignore issues thinking others will handle;
                                     2. pass the problem;
                                    3. act beyond authorities;
                                    4. disrespecting our near and dear to solve others problems.


(c) Commitment: (set proper expectation, follow up, commitment)


This means : 1. proper expectation and follow up;
                        2. respond as and when promised;
                        3. explain when you have to say no;
                       4. be true to your word.


This does not mean: 1. commit to everything;
                                     2. promising something that cannot be delivered;
                                    3. not expecting honor from others;
                                    4. taking unfair advantage of our resources.


(e) Empathy: (Be a good listener)


This means : 1. understand others point of view;
                        2. show genuine concern;
                        3. communicate in easy words;
                       4. ask for others idea before important decision are made.


This does not mean: 1. accept everything of others;
                                     2. assume we know what is best;
                                    3. expressing frustration of internal system;
                                    4.will not enter into tough negotiation.


(f) Be passionate: (Be enthusiastic)

This means : 1. walk that extra mile;
                        2. bring positive energy; 
                        3. believe in our roles and ability;
                       4. strive for excellence.


This does not mean: 1. being emotional and dramatic;
                                     2. do not assess holistically;
                                    3. disregards others reaction;
                                    4. overwhelm others.

How much time is lost in debating the details of various aspects, sweating the small stuff. Great leaders are able to bring people with diverse perspectives and personalities together to bring about an understanding and consensus. Although each may only experience a certain part of the elephant, its still an elephant. Just wanted to recall the story of five blind men and elephant, http://www.jainworld.com/literature/story25.htm

May the Kudankulam project reach a solution!!!!

The next time you debate with someone think 

"parasparopagraho jivanam"