When You Don't Drink

I read an article today in The Guardian about how many of today's young people today are making the decision not to drink. It's called, "Time, please: is drinking becoming as socially unacceptable as smoking?" I perked up, as my lifestyle choice not to drink has made several people angry and defensive. Even at age 54, there can be a lot of pressure at social functions to have a glass of wine or a cocktail.

On a recent cruise, I ordered a virgin strawberry daiquiri while others were getting margaritas to enjoy with our Mexican dinner. One of the men I had just met, and really liked, made fun of me for it. "Shirley Temple?" he mocked. I told him enthusiastically after a swallow how delicious it was. It was served in a huge glass, was a gorgeous shade of red, and topped with a generous helping of whipped cream. I ate and drank so many things on that cruise that I normally don't. It was a decadent time, and a  fun and exciting experience. Still, it bothered me that he had to make a crack about the fact that I don't drink. Having someone point it out in public makes you feel uncomfortable and bullied. I smiled and gulped down my fruity concoction.

While attending a reunion for one of the shows I did, one of the men asked me what I was drinking. "Oh, I don't drink," I answered, without thinking. I didn't mean it in a rude way, I just didn't know what to order. "She doesn't drink," he repeated to his friend, angrily.  His voice was rising. He said it to a man that I used to date. It was very uncomfortable, and I felt put on the spot. "Well I could have a coffee..." I suggested, trying to keep the conversation light and pleasant. These were two guys that I really like, and spent a lot of time with when I was young, but the tension was instantly intense. I thought it was strange, because just a few minutes earlier we had been having such a great time together.

A couple of women I know from a craft group looked at me recently and announced, "We like to party." When I saw the hatred and malice in their eyes, I immediately fled. It was a challenge.  I didn't expect it; I was just knitting. "Here we go again," I thought.  They are in their seventies and eighties. I have never been a partier. I love to see my friends, and enjoy going out to a nice dinner, but am not one to stay up all night, making noise, getting drunk, stoned, or wasted. I've never understood that behavior. I love a scrumptious meal, dessert, and great company, but I have always stayed sober. For whatever reason,  this seems to enrage certain people. These two women, in particular, were applying pressure.  I guess it's a choice that threatens some people. Have you ever been ostracized by your decision not to drink or do drugs?

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