<p>“we drank like fish when we were younger, and sure we are okay now.”</p>
<p>Some are and some aren’t. I know quite a few people who did not make it.</p>
<p>no kidding
I didn’t “drink like a fish” but I never graduated highschool, and the repercussions from the “partying lifetstyle” I am still dealing with.
No I will not go ballistic if one of my kids drinks- but I am not going to condone it- I do not want them to play with their future like that-</p>
<p>I was fortunate to have good parental models and a positive peer group when I was young, which also gave me the strength to avoid temptation when in college. I honestly never had an alcoholic drink until I was 21, and I drank rarely after that. In fact, I have never really been drunk, because I never had more than one or two at a time. I enjoyed the time with friends and felt great in the morning.</p>
<p>I am not trying to brag. What I am trying to say is that life is great without alcohol. Alcohol is not necessary to have a good time or relax with friends. When my sons go out to do things with friends, they rarely drink–the under 21 son does not drink at all anymore, although he did flirt briefly with partying. And they are both terrific young men who are fun to be around.</p>
<p>Why get drunk? If you think it through logically, what good does it do you? You kill off brain cells and feel lousy in the morning. Why not enjoy life sober? Or just have one drink if you enjoy the taste or need to relax, but want to take good care of your body and avoid leaning over the toilet. Is there any logical reason for getting drunk??</p>
<p>"If abstinence is not acceptable, I am not sure there is a better way. "</p>
<p>Couple of years ago my S had to have a physical before starting of the soccer season( high school team) . After the physical was over our family doctor had a talk with S about dangers of drinking, smoking and drugs. I was present. Interestingly enough the part about alcohol was different. No words about abstinence were spoken, but a lot was said about moderation, understanding and never driving after consuming alcohol. The part about drugs and tobacco was “NEVER TRY THESE” . I thought then and think now that the talk was right on the money. I understand that tea-totallers and social drinkers may never see eye to eye on this, but by making this situation black and white( abstinence or alcoholism) we are not solving anything.</p>