सामुदायिक स्वास्थ्य : कुछ आधार सूत्र

Summary

The text discusses the concept of community and its importance in human life, drawing on philosophical and spiritual principles, particularly those of Mahavira. It argues that every person is born with infinite potential for power, knowledge, perception, and conduct, yet questions why discrimination based on expectation and neglect exists. The current negative and narrow mindset requires a revival of Mahavira’s socialist and coexistence perspective. The fragmentation of community consciousness is attributed to the rejection of coexistence. If family members evaluate each other’s worth, accept each other’s existence with totality, and commit to impartial behavior, Mahavira’s principle of coexistence can be reborn. Life is defined by unity; without it, life becomes lifeless. While from an absolute perspective a person is alone, from a practical perspective community is essential. Development is impossible without community, as highlighted by the principle “united we stand, divided we fall.” True community is not merely the coming together of individuals but the emergence of a sense of equality, tolerance, harmony, and goodwill. The current era is one of insensitivity, leading to the breakdown of community and family. The modern mindset promotes negativity, causing the golden past of human civilization to fade. The ideal tradition of joint families in India is fragmenting, and the concept of “we two, ours two” has divided collective consciousness. Divorce, suicide, and other tensions arise from a lack of community consciousness. Refining one’s thought process is necessary to prevent family courts and situations that harm community life. Community holds many possibilities for development, and the absence of community consciousness destroys them. The foundation of community vitality can be built through the emergence of values and a disposition that fosters harmony. Humility is the fundamental mantra of community health, requiring mutual surrender. Ego and possessiveness create dryness in coexistence, leading to cracks in affectionate relationships. The younger generation’s mindset, influenced by contradictions in intimate relationships, views surrender and humility negatively. The desire for independence and freedom has oppressed culture, etiquette, behavior, and values. Jain scriptures offer formulas for ego-dissolution