I don't drink--by choice. That choice has a lot to do with me being [raised as] a Christian but it has just as much to do with my personal convictions. Even during my rebellious years, I never got drunk but prefferred to steal sips through the cocktail straws of my friends' drinks. I could probably count the number of alcoholic encounters I've had on both hands (maybe even one; I never actually kept track).
But before you get the wrong idea and take this as a sanctimonious ode to my self-restraint, the reason I decided to talk about my [in]experience with alcohol was because I'm constantly re-evaluating my stance on the issue. I read an article tonight that provided a really unique perspective on the issue--The Pleasures and Perils of Fermentation--so that re-kindled my thoughts, as well.
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| image credit: http://www.thelifeofluxury.com |
For the record, I don't think that
drinking alcohol is a "sin"--but I do think that drunkenness is (or it should be). Also, drinking in public
around those who aren't saved--but they know that I am--may confuse
them based on society's views of what Christians should and shouldn't
do. Yes, I know that I shouldn't be driven by what other people think,
BUT there are some instances where our actions can deeply impact those
on the outside looking in, or even new believers--and this particular verse has been the driving force behind my decision to not [openly] partake of alcohol.
Personally,
I would have no problem drinking a glass of wine in the privacy of my
home but I haven't taken the step to actually buy any. I don't feel compelled to; plus, I wouldn't know
which kind to get. Pairing with particular foods or rattling off vintage years is too
much hassle to enjoy a beverage in my humble opinion, but I'm definitely open
to suggestions if the opportunity presents itself. For my consumption purposes,
wine is where it stops, though--even in my 'wild' days, the hard liquor
never appealed to me. And I can't stand the smell of beer, so there's
nothing to worry about there.
At this point, I haven't had anything close to a drink in years but I'll be sure to let you all know if and when I do. ;o) Until then...
Be blessed,
pVI
I understand exactly where you are coming from. I feel the same way about alcohol. I have drunk before and have only been drunk once when I wasn't aware that I was consuming it. I see nothing wrong with drinking "softer" alcoholic beverages whether it's alone, with a spouse, or with a group of trusted friends. Hard liquor is just outta line all the way around to me though lol It's basically there to get buzzed and/or drunk quickly. For a small girl (I'm 5'6 and 123lbs) I know my body probably couldn't handle those types of drinks anyway.
ReplyDeleteAs for buying it...that's why I don't drink lol I just can't see myself getting up, driving to the store, and buying alcohol. Or even picking some up when I go to get groceries, when I'm aware that I could easily spend that money elsewhere. It's just not that important to me.
I'm glad you feel me, ALLIE25th. You're right--I'm thinking it's just NOT that serious (to me, anyway). But everyone has their 'vice'... mine just happens to be something else.
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