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

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

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PARTIES, ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
The Jain Perspective
Before partaking in any activity or making any decision in life, ask yourself, "What value do I see in this?" How is this decision or act going to positively impact you or those around you? So when it comes to alcohol and drugs, ask yourself the same question. Consider all different angles including its impact on your spiritual growth.
There is some very vague and light research that alcohol and drugs may inhibit spiritual growth. Although some of the methods of this research is questionable, some research by the Spiritual Science Research Foundation has also shown that alcohol could close or limit the activity in your chakras or energy centers. Freeing or opening these chakra centers lead you on a path of more spiritual growth. But, why is spiritual growth important?
Do you ever question your purpose? Why were you born? Are you living the life you should live with the right purpose in mind? If you don't ask yourself these questions, that is a problem. As Jains, all souls are considered equal having the same exact purpose of freeing themselves from the cycle of birth and death and liberating the soul. Keeping this purpose in mind will always help you decide if a decision, an argument, or any situation is truly worth engaging in. And, you will notice that petty things that would normally seem like such a big deal will become such small, futile things. My friend once said, "Spiritual life is what distinguishes us from other beings." And, compared to any other species, as humans, we actually have the ability to ask these questions about our spirituality. We have the ability to mold ourselves for the better. An animal or insect would not be able to do those things. And, for these reasons, because we have this ability, it is important to be concerned about your own spiritual growth rather than let this life go to waste. So, at the end of the day, is drinking or doing drugs worth it?
Apart from the peer pressure and because it is "risky" or "adventurous" why is it that so many students engage in drinking and doing drugs? It's probably because it "feels good." As we all know from studying Jainism, external substances which affect the mind should be avoided. Alcohol and drugs can suppress one's inhibitions and awareness, especially based on how much is consumed. This may lead to more mental violence and, in turn,
BEING JAIN IN COLLEGE
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