This year I’ve started writing some fiction (short stories) and I’d like to finish my study of Jainism. The element of Jainism that I’m most inspired by is the extreme commitment to Ahimsa – non-harm. Ahimsa is a core principle in Buddhism, The Yogic Tradition, and Jainism. I have especially been thinking about ahimsa in regards to diet. As I understand it, many Jains won’t even uproot plants for consumption because it kills the plant (carrots, potatoes, etc).

There are ways to eat which are harmonious with nature. For instance, eating a piece of fruit helps both the animal and the plant.

I want to live in harmony with plants and animals to the fullest extent I can. Raw veganism is probably the best way to do that in regards to diet. Just eat what you would naturally eat if you found it in the wild. The world gives it to you.

Fiction, Jainism, maybe a little art, eating raw food, and taking life as it comes. In my personal life, there are some things I’ve been avoiding that I need to re-engage with. I have an art showing this fall and I’m currently looking for a small picture of grapes for the living room wall.