I have many good friends I've known for 30+ years, many are excessive drinkers. I have made no secret about my having quit drinking, and most of them have been very supportive. I don't feel I need to discontinue my friendship with them, but I darn sure need to be very cautious how I associate with them. As for any hopes my sobriety will lead them to do the same, I can only lead by example, when and if they're ready they will approach me. I have a couple long sober friends who I reached out to when I was ready, the example they had been setting had not escaped me for many years.