Thanks for the advice! Yes, we are a very alcohol-driven society. I am grateful I have friends who will do sober activities with me, but I think I definitely need an sober support network. I'm looking forward to building mine.
That's great that much of the temptation diminished with step work for you! And also really awesome that you still attend music shows confidently, it gives me hope for the future!
Good I'm glad they are considerate of you KK.
Yes you will do just that and make lasting bonds that are like salve on a wound. Proud of you also for your positive attitude and hope despite the temptation to want to give up or feel defeated. Keep up the hard work it's all worth it!
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Not one I would recommend: I had bought tickets 6 months out for a music festival in Mexico. I quit 3 months before going. I considered not going as I was solo and it was all inclusive (free booze all week, and no one would know). I went, had a F’n blast and didn’t touch a drop. It started then. Still sober 2 years later. But the triggers for somethings never go away.
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Certain situations like family gatherings or having friends over don't really feel much different because I didn't always drink in those situations to begin with. But I just went "out" to an establishment for the first time since giving up alcohol a year and a half ago. This little bar/restaurant I used to frequent. All the same old regulars were there and asked me to take shots with them. I told them I don't drink anymore and ordered iced tea. Nobody bat an eye, and I had a great conversation with a stranger. The guys and I exchanged "I've missed yous" and it felt like no time had passed. I think that's when something changed in my association - realizing I could still have that comradery without having to bond over alcohol. I had never stepped foot in that place (as an adult) without ordering beer or whiskey. But it turns out alcohol had nothing to do with the feeling I got from that environment. It's just seeing friendly faces and listening to good music and eating good food. That's what fun is for me. Sorry for the novel lol
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That's beautiful, thank you. That's really awesome that you were able to maintain those connections and still maintain your boundaries.
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