To the drinkers,
"Why don't you drink?" "Why don't you party?" Not only am I underage, like many of those who ask me these questions, but I do have my reasons. Every kid in college has a wild idea of what it may be like, and for me it was never drunk induced stages. I don't enjoy going out to clubs, bars, or any place that people feel the need to "drink to socialize." No, I don't dislike people who drink or party, and no this doesn't make me a prude. These decisions make me, simply me. Many girls my age feel the need to "get drunk to have fun" and with me this absolutely is not the case. I understand everyone has a preference in how to spend their time, but I don't question it, just like you shouldn't question me.
There are plenty of reasons why I don't like to "party" and one of them is perhaps the fact that both my parents were alcoholics, yet everyone's different right? Wrong, it's not a guarantee that if your parents were alcoholics, you'll be an alcoholic, but (and this is coming from a psychology major) there is a ninety percent chance you will be addicted if both parents were. I understand I am nothing like my parents, but anything can create a gateway, and that's something I have chosen to keep closed simply by not drinking.
Another self-explanatory reason is because I don't like it. I don't like the idea of partying, the taste of alcohol, or the atmosphere that comes with partying. In plain and simple terms: it makes me uncomfortable. I don't understand why people need to consume alcohol to have "fun." I'm in no way insinuating that everyone just consumes alcohol for fun, I'm sure people enjoy the taste or have other various reasons as to why they enjoy it. Unlike everyone who asks me why I don't drink, I will not ask you, why you do.
Maybe, I don't fit in. Maybe, I never will, but that doesn't mean you should refrain from inviting me out, just because I don't drink doesn't mean I can't enjoy myself. Depending on the person, I can be totally comfortable going out and having fun with zero alcohol consumption!
Do not expect me to take care of you if you're drunk, because I did that way to many times with my parents. You have to remember, you're not my responsibility, but I will watch after you. Being the designated driver or the sober friend is something I'm proud of and perhaps always will be. I find that it reassures me that I'm nothing like my parents. For those of you who do drink, I am in no way judging you. I just hope you do not judge me too. I accept that people enjoy drinking and partying, and that doesn't make everyone an "alcoholic," but I don't and that doesn't make me a "nerd" or a "buzzkill."
Sincerely,
The sober friend by choice
P.S. Please remember your drunk photos are on the internet forever-- I viewed some interesting photos looking for the cover art for this article!
