$JES 983 Being Jain In College An Experiential Guide 2nd Edition

Author(s): Sonali Vakharia
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

Page 31

trust, and respect. At the end of the day, it should be deeper than just an attachment with someone based on physical chemistry. It is best if friendship is the foundation because you can truly care for someone selflessly and genuinely.
RELATIONSHIPS
4. Do not string someone along just for your present pleasure. It can hurt them if you have no future goals in mind. Of course, you may not be completely sure, but if you really don't see it going anywhere, let it go. If you lead someone on with no plans for a further relationship, that can undoubtedly lead to lots of heartbreak and pain.
5. Do not try to change someone, and do not change for anybody unless you choose to or if it's for the better. Everyone is the way they are for a reason, and we should embrace our differences. If the other person decides to change on their own -- or maybe even for you -- that's different. It should never be forced. How would you like it if someone tried to force you to change to fit their idea of a "perfect person"?
--
"Creating Heaven on Earth Through Compassionate Communication" by Dr. Hema Pokharna provides a helpful guide to resolving interpersonal conflicts and practicing compassionate communication. This can be applicable in your relationships with roommates, friends, family, significant others, classmates, and
more.
you can definitely learn a lot from romantic
Don't get me wrong relationships (tolerance, your own flaws, commitment, compromise, etc.), but you can definitely learn all of these without relationships, as well. It's up to you and what you feel you need. And don't be too hard on yourself if you do make a mistake. But, to prevent a mistake, always keep your purpose, goals, values, etc., in mind.
Jainism supports Brahmacharya (celibacy, or chaste living), which encourages avoiding sex before marriage and avoiding sexual thoughts to retain a clear mind and rational thinking. For more information, read "Brahmacharya and Celibacy" by Shardule Shah on Young Minds. However, if you do choose to be sexually active, we believe it is important to consider contraception and STI prevention methods.
BEING JAIN IN COLLEGE
31