Though life and culture are impacted by many things, the Bible has largely influenced me. The Bible, a religious text of Christianity, was introduced to Kerala, India in 52 C.E through apostle Thomas. Although Christianity and the Bible existed in Kerala for centuries, Hinduism and Islam are the more popular religions. Although religious tolerance is supported by the state, religious conversion is not easily accepted among people groups. My original ancestors were Hindu Brahmins and upheld the Vedas as their scriptural test. In the socio-economic class, Brahmins are elite with strict practices and are to avoid all contact with the untouchables. For my great-great-grandfather, this was unacceptable and he converted to Christianity after being exposed to the Bible which allowed him to interact with all castes. This conversion led to him being ostracized by many in his family and community. Regardless, he held onto his beliefs and became a teacher for the village students despite their religion or caste. I am certain there are many inspirational things to be found in the Vedas, Torah, Koran, and other religious texts. For me, the Bible is essential to my life as it inspires me to be a future physician that will serve all and persevere just like my ancestors. Inspirational books like the Bible has the ability to inspire and influence humanity by infusing hope and providing an anchor for an individual's' decisions, standards of morality, and their actions.

– J.A.

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