raider,
I'm so happy for you! I had that same philosophic shift, some might call it a spiritual awakening, but I was done. stick the fork in it and all.
I wish I knew how to explain it. still, I routinely bag out of events when I know there's going to be excessively drinking, but now it's more about a lack of interest in hanging around drunks than it is fear of wanting to drink myself.
I think maybe having a better idea of the Addictive Voice helps. recognizing I had no reason to drink, only excuses. Does that make sense?
so happy for you. My family was drama central too. Good job on persevering!
Love from Lenina