Sadly, having seen several people suffer the effects of addiction, I have a love-hate relationship with alcohol. Meanwhile, it has given me some of my most fantastic nights — and worst mornings. While I still enjoy a good wine or, better still, a cold beer after a hot round of golf, I hardly partake these days. A recent online post asks people their reasons for not drinking. Here are their sober insights.
1. Liver Failure
A previous heavy drinker explains their moment of clarity: they received a liver failure diagnosis due to the volume of grog consumed. “I stopped drinking and now no longer qualify for a transplant because I’m told, ‘You’re no longer ill enough to require a new organ,'” adds the erstwhile boozer.
2. Moderate Exposure
“Grew up a nerd, so I didn’t touch the stuff when I was young,” remarks the next observer. “When I was finally old enough to drink, I was old enough to see how many alcoholics were in my family.” A great way to abstain from drinking is being sober around people who are blind drunk — you will soon realize how dumb you look.
3. A New Lease
A former “hard liquor every night” drinker explains how he “started to see dependence setting in,” and before, found it interfering with work and his personal life. “The final straw was when I went to the hospital for severe withdrawal symptoms,” concedes the commenter. The good news is that he is three weeks sober and is due for one month’s rehab.
4. Losing Bodily Control
“I could deal with the body tremors and other withdrawal symptoms,” a newly converted teetotaller says, “but the shaky breathing gave me crazy panic attacks.” He continues, “I’m 38 days sober. It’s been a struggle over the past year, and I have had multiple relapses back to binge drinking.” This gentleman’s testimony should warn anyone needing a daily drink.
5. Depression Is Enough Already
“My father’s side (father included) are alcoholics,” explains our next wagon-bound contributor. “And with my depression, it’s just not a good idea.” No truer word was ever said; I will never see alcohol as a way to happiness; it takes far too much physical toll to warrant that discussion anyway. However, I concede it can occasionally lubricate social situations — though only in moderation.
6. Twenty Years of Wagon Time
One proud commenter shares his twentieth anniversary of being sober, which is why he still avoids alcohol. “I still can’t believe it, honestly; it really had me bad,” recalls the observer. “Twelve bottles of Bud Ice nightly — ​​I still gotta stay away from stuff that reminds me.” Now, that is a ton of beer bottles to place on a wall.
7. Just, No
The thought of losing control of one’s capacities is too much for one who has no interest in ever turning to the bottle. “I’m always scared not to feel well,” says a clear-thinking man, “and I don’t like the feeling of being unable to control my thoughts very clearly.” I must admit that I have had some profound moments of wisdom while drinking, though they seem less profound the next day — I’m not sure why!
8. My Superpower
The idea of losing social control can go both ways. Another drinker illustrates how they are socially awkward and hesitant until they have had a drink. “I’m friendly and funny and happy and outgoing when I’m drunk, and most of all, not afraid to be social: none of those things are true when I’m sober.” This scenario is probably the best reason to stop; if you can’t be confident without an addictive drug, you are in trouble.
9. I Can’t Be Trusted
“Because I’m allergic,” jokes a commenter who can’t wait to get to his punchline. “Break out in handcuffs, misdemeanors, and felonies, ya know.” I once had an Irish friend in Vietnam, where I lived for four years. He was utterly teetotal — unlike all my other friends there. I once asked him what would happen if he were to have one drink, and his response came with a wry smile: “You would need property and liability insurance.”
10. Hangovers Get Worse — Much Worse
When you drink in your late teens (I am British) and early twenties, you can get up and function the next day without issue. However, once you hit 30, navigating the morning after the night before is much harder. “The way I feel during and after drinking is drastically different in my thirties than in my twenties,” warns a seasoned drinker who no longer enjoys the pastime. “Hangovers can last days!”
11. “I Drank A House”
Most people quit drinking alcohol for health reasons, recognizing their vice was more of an addiction, and stopping “saved a ton of cash.” How much money did alcohol cost, you ask? One said, “When I got sober, I did napkin math, and ten years being a functional alcoholic resulted in a depressingly large dollar figure. I drank a house.”
Source: Reddit.
11 Most Common Regrets People Make In Their Lives And Can Release For More Fulfillment
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Have you ever made a decision that you later regretted? You’re not alone. Most people are familiar with the discomfort of going down the wrong path. Some mistakes are small and not worthy of second thoughts. However, common regrets concerning relationships, family, health, and careers, may linger for years or potentially on your deathbed.
Use your regrets to help you make life-changing decisions to compensate for lost opportunities. Acknowledging your regrets can often lead to a more fulfilling life.
10 Destinations That Have Been Ruined By Rich People
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As the world becomes increasingly interconnected, the influence of wealth and privilege can be seen in all corners of the globe. While the economic benefits of tourism and investment are undeniable, some destinations have undergone significant transformations at the hands of the wealthy and affluent. Once cherished for authenticity, these places have been molded into exclusive playgrounds for the wealthy elite.
These 10 Healthy Foods Are Just As Satisfying As Junk Food
In a world where unhealthy foods are often marketed as indulgent treats, it can be easy to overlook the delicious and satisfying healthy options. Luckily, the internet is filled with people eager to share their favorite healthy foods that taste just as good as the less nutritious options. Here are some of the top suggestions from individuals who have found healthy foods that satisfy their cravings just as well as their less healthy counterparts.
Storytime: 10 Snacks People Love That Others Find Disgusting
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Snacks can be a source of comfort and pleasure for many people. From sweet to savory, there is a snack out there for everyone. However, what one person considers delicious, another may find revolting. Taste buds are unique, and food preferences can be subjective. A snack that divides opinions is one that some people love, but others hate.
Are You Being Too Courteous For Your Own Good? You May Be By Doing These Things
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Are you sometimes courteous to some people out of fear of offending them and worrying about what they think of you? Being respectful to others is a sign of good character, but you may be going too far. You may be helping others when you lack time to do your chores. Learn to say ‘no’ before committing to do things for others. You may be too polite for your own good.
This article was initially published and syndicated on The Cents of Money.
