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

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

Page 45

PARTIES, ALCOHOL AND DRUGS
love them. 7. I have become more productive because even if I do go
out, I don't wake up hung over. Or, if I don't go out, I have so many other things I could be doing (such as hobbies, studying, working, relaxing, computer browsing, volunteering). I'm not wasting money on alcohol, and can either save it, spend it on something worthwhile, or donate it. I see the world in a completely different way, and I feel wonderful! Some people might start drinking or doing drugs due to boredom. I suggest finding a hobby in that case. By nature, I'm a pretty curious person, but I've never really been very curious when it comes to drugs and alcohol. I see nothing positive about altering my mind. This is my opinion, though.
Things You Can Say to Stay Strong So, what should you do at parties? It's up to you! I can't tell you what to do. But, if you decide you don't want to drink, don't be scared to say strongly but politely, “Thanks, but I don't drink.” If they ask your reasons, always give a response. Don't be offended by questions. First of all, you should know why you don't. Second of all, people like to know why, and when they know why, they often let it go. So, think about why you don't drink and formulate a response. Is it because of Jainism? Is it because you are strongly against it? Or, do you not really know? Maybe you're just not comfortable with it. You don't have to go in detail. I usually just say, "It's against my religious beliefs, but it is mostly a personal choice for me." And if they need more detail, I say, “I usually have a great time without it, so I don't need it.” And if someone asks, "Haven't you ever wanted to try it?" or "Don't you feel like it?" or "Don't you just want to relax and have a good time?" I usually say, "Not really. I'm just not comfortable with the idea of something affecting my mind. And, I can relax/have a great time without it." You definitely don't have to go into that much detail, but that's an example. Standing up for your beliefs isn't hard; it just requires some confidence. This concept can be applied to anything you believe in. Be
BEING JAIN IN COLLEGE
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