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

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

Page 44

PARTIES, ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
onwards and have a great time at parties without
drinking any alcohol. 2. It's a liberating feeling to be able to respect other
hoices while maintaining your own belief system. People will, surprisingly, respect you for it even if they may push you to drink. Yes, I have had people try to pressure me before, but I have also literally had people come up to me at parties and bars and tell me they respect me for sticking to my beliefs and being able to come out with them, be sociable, and have a nice time without needing a drink. You will find that if you are able to withstand such social pressures, you will be able to withstand many things in other aspects of life. Overall, it will make you a mentally strong person. Some people tell others that the reason they don't drink is because of their religion. I do not disagree, but at the same time, I tell others that it is a "personal choice." It makes it sound more of a personal decision. When you decide on your own that you don't want to engage in this
practice, you will be more strong and responsible. 4. I don't feel comfortable with the idea of allowing
something to alter my mind. I like having control. I feel stronger this way. I like enjoying things for what they are
and not having this skewed perception of reality. 5. I want people to enjoy my company for what it is. That's
why I still get invited to parties and to go out with friends although I don't drink. It's about your personality,
friendliness, etc. 6. I am not judgmental of others who do drink, do drugs,
etc. And I don't let them feel like I'm being judgmental. Just as you were raised not to drink or your personal choice may be not to drink, they were raised differently. In cases like this, use Anekantaväda, and it really helps to accept people as they are and connect with them. Everyone has positives and negatives, including you. And you can still learn from others. Do not let something like this mask the person they are within. Connect with them, and be understanding. Find their goodness and
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BEING JAIN IN COLLEGE