Paryushan Parv-conclusion Day-Kshama Vaani or Forgiveness Day
Anupama Jain
A friend’s special forgiveness card is lying in front of me;
“I can’t change past misdeeds,But can learn from them,
Making amends and starting anew
For whatever mistakes I might have madeKnowingly or unknowingly with thoughts, words or deeds
That caused you hurt and pain,
Please forgive me and let us start on, afresh.”

She was a dear friend, due to some misunderstanding we parted ways but this little card brought tears in my eyes, all bitterness washed away with tears. Card was sent on the forgiveness day - The concluding day of Paryushan Parv or Das Lakshan Dharm Parv- Most auspicious jain festival , observed for ten days in Chaturmas. It celebrates human values - forgiveness, non violence, truthfulness etc that harbinger social harmony, amity and propagates the essence of Jainism - Live and let live!
According to jain scriptures forgiveness or kshama is termed as “ veerasya abhushanm”- a strength, not weakness. We just cannot reverse the past, and if we have to march ahead in life with positivity, why not practice forgiveness? Practicing forgiveness is greatest boon to mankind from god - said seers.