Sober October - Heroic?

[Abu Taj al Deen]

I am quite far removed from any kind of alcoholic culture, so definitely forgive my ignorance in my approach to this article. I just have to comment, while in a agreement with the writer, on how much it shocks me that simple abstinence from something in this day and age can stir such 'bragging rights.'

I haven't had a drop since April 2007. 🙂 And while I'm proud of it, it really was no mean feat. When I explain that I don't drink I'm always met with responses like 'What? At all?' or "But why?" or "Wasn't it hard to give up?" (The last one, when I explain that yes, I have before.) It's always kind of baffled me how I have to explain that I actually had no problems simply transitioning to the next chapter of life (alcoholically speaking) and simply not injesting booze anymore. So when reading the article I kind of gave a slight smirk and nod when "This is not because we’re pregnant, or in recovery, but because booze is – despite what British* culture may insinuate – not actually intrinsic to your survival." (*Or Australian...)

Here is the article I read here: http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfre ... not-heroic

So I guess I'm kind of looking for thoughts. Why do you think alcohol is perceived as though it is absolutely necessary to our existence? Do you see this attitude as one that can or will change in the near or distant future?

 

[PrincessMadelyn]

I've never had any alcohol in my life. I don't plan to do so.

I don't really understand why so many think that you are absolutely required to drink, particularly above a certain age.

 

[Andyman9491]

Agreed. I've only had sips and that was because my parents let me. I'm really quite ok if I don't ever get to drink alcohol.

 

[R44]

Why do you think alcohol is perceived as though it is absolutely necessary to our existence?

I got drunk, only recently too. I'd just gotten out of hospital and needed a drink. Then another one. Then another one.

I'm only 19, moral: Don't drink, don't puke the next morning.

 

[Joshua Farrell]

I always heard the question from those who drink, in question of those who don't drink, "Why do you not drink? It is really fun to drink! You cannot have fun without drinking!"

My response would always be, "I don't drink, because it is just as fun to be watching you make a fool of yourself while you do drink, and I won't regret it in the morning."