In a heartfelt address during a Jain spiritual gathering, a senior government minister paid glowing tributes to revered Jain Acharyas and reflected on the importance of values, selfless service, and the transformative power of thoughts. The event, attended by prominent spiritual leaders including Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj, Acharya Virag Sagar Ji Maharaj, and Acharya Vishuddha Sagar Ji Maharaj, was marked by reverence, gratitude, and deep introspection.

Not a Guest, But Family

The minister opened his speech by warmly greeting the assembly and humorously addressing his niece, Kirti, who had repeatedly referred to him as the “chief guest.” He clarified that he did not consider himself a guest, but rather a member of the family, emphasizing the deep connection he felt with the spiritual community.

The Power of Thoughts and the Story of Valmiki

Reflecting on the significance of thoughts, the minister narrated the story of the dacoit Valmiki, who, through a change in mindset, transformed from a feared bandit to the revered sage who authored the Ramayana. He stressed that the world is shaped by thoughts: positive thoughts can elevate a person to divinity, while negative thoughts can lead to one’s downfall.

The Role of Family and Personal Responsibility

He recounted how Valmiki, after being confronted by sages, asked his family if they would share the burden of his sins. Each family member—including his wife—refused, making him realize that one must bear the consequences of their own actions. This realization marked Valmiki’s transformation, highlighting the importance of personal responsibility.

Service Over Ego

The minister humbly stated that he did not come with the pride of being a government official, but as a disciple of Acharya Vidyasagar Ji Maharaj. He reiterated that positions of power are fleeting and that true fulfillment comes from serving others. “I am not here as a minister, but as a servant,” he said, underscoring his commitment to public service and humility.

A Call for Peace and Non-Violence

Addressing the current global turbulence and the threat of war, he lamented the language of destruction used by world leaders and stressed that only values like truth, non-violence, and renunciation can save humanity from ruin. He called upon spiritual leaders to guide society, asserting that political leaders alone cannot bring about the necessary transformation.

Jainism’s Universal Message

He explained the true meaning of being a Jain—not just by name, but by conquering one’s own inner weaknesses. He emphasized that if humanity embraced the path shown by Jain philosophy, the world could find lasting peace amidst material chaos.

Empowering Women and Family Values

The minister also highlighted the importance of respecting daughters and empowering women, sharing personal anecdotes about how the presence of daughters had brought joy and meaning to his family life. He spoke about ongoing efforts for women’s economic empowerment and the need to honor every daughter as a form of the divine.

A Prayer for Blessings and Self-Purification

Concluding his speech, the minister requested the Acharyas to bless him so that any flaws within him could be purified through their spiritual influence. He expressed his belief that true purpose in life is found in serving others and sought the Acharya’s guidance for the upcoming Chaturmas (a period of spiritual retreat) to be held in Vidisha.

A Message of Hope

Amidst the challenges facing the world, the minister’s words resonated as a call for hope, humility, and collective well-being. As the event drew to a close, his message reinforced the timeless Jain values of peace, compassion, and self-realization as the path to a better world.