Originally Posted by
39maleuk 
In house I can avoid drinking by going to bed but I haven't ordered a "soft" drink in a pub for years (about 25).
Before my recent relapse - now arrested again, for 11 days - during the year or so I was sober, I enjoyed going out, from time to time, to bars and pubs and not drinking.
It gave me such a great sense of freedom, even while I was under "attack" of "one would not hurt you" or whatever. I just smiled and replied, no thanks, but I can't drink. Sometimes adding "because I am an alcoholic," sometimes "because I have an allergy."
Now, however, after the relapse and feeling vulnerable, I go (in really big circles) around any place that may trigger the urge.
I guess, everyone needs to find her or his own way to avoid that one, first, crucial drink.
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