Neil Davey, a junior at Montgomery Blair High School, eloquently describes his struggles as he contemplated seva, his motives to serve and the resulting fruits of his action.

What if we all infused politics with the dharma values that matter to us, and help bring the practices of inclusivity, pluralism, valuing the divinity within all beings, compassionate action, non-violence, collaboration and unity to our country's highly partisan politics?

As far as I know, I am the only practicing Hindu at Union Theological Seminary right now, and this leaves me in a tough spot. This is because I am not sure how I, as a Hindu, as a "Hare Krishna," fit into the fabric of social justice that defines Union.

For Hindus, it is a day to take fresh spiritual resolve and pray for inner spiritual strength to attain success in all undertakings. This observance and prayer for the removal of obstacles is especially relevant as the country faces a polarized political environment.

Today, more than ever, we need to come together to understand the interconnectedness of people, faith and nature in our lives. It is only by recognizing the sacredness of all creation that we can honor and protect it.

Kentucky's Gubernatorial candidate's deplorable anti-Hindu remarks reflect an education and understanding gap. We need to build bridges of understanding.

The Dharmic and Hindu American communities need to take the responsibility and share in developing creative seva ideas that will strengthen the country.