tarebear29

Hi all-
So this past weekend I was invited to my friend's 25th birthday bonfire party. I immediately planned on not going because I did not want the temptation of alcohol under my nose. But- I had a crappy Saturday, and I was feeling restless. Then, 3 of my friends who were also invited offered to go with me to the party. They also offered to NOT DRINK while there, in order to support me! It was pretty cool. So, I went to this bonfire. Picture it. Deep in the Pennsylvania woods. Rainy, muddy, giant bonfire, three trucks with country music playing and a couple of games like horseshoes and pong. It was alot of fun. The best part was that it wasn't in a bar, it was free, I got to be with all of my friends in the great outdoors and I DIDN'T HAVE TO DRINK. Although, it was quite stressful being around alcohol- I was more interested in line dancing in the mud. The thought of a drink definitely came to mind, but I just reached up to my higher power to help me get through the night. I pretty much just kept my rock bottom in my head at all times, and remembered that I never wanted to go back there, and that allowed me my sanity for the evening. Is it wrong that I had such a good time in an environment that contained alcohol????

johnatahn1

congrats man well done I wish I could do that

jakemmy22

Nope! I am around places and parties with drunks too, but I pray before hand and always walk in with a drink in your hand! Congrats!

ZoeM

What's a redneck?

Linnie

It's a slang term we use sometimes for country folk in the states.

johnatahn1

I love the fact that people all over congregate here . it happens to all of us no matter what ...big hugs

Linnie

Also, great job, tearbear!!! You should be really proud of yourself Isn't it awesome to remember how much fun you had at a party?!

longbeachone

The whole world is full of alcohol. Every corner store, every restaurant, vacations, dinner parties and bonfires in the Pennsylvania woods. Good job getting out and having fun with your friends and avoiding drinking. The more you do it, the easier it gets.

ReadyAtLast

lol ,thanks Zoe I was wondering the same thing

dwtbd

" if the TV on the top is the one that works....you might be a redneck"

Dee74

Hi tarebear

I don't think it's wrong that you had a good time at all...you did good and I dont want to downplay your success at all....

just don't let your inner addict twist that into something like

'see...you can hang out with the boys and not drink. Mission over. Case closed!'

Complacency was my downfall, I forgot my addiction was a strong and patient one.

Of course, you may be different, but I wasn't strong enough to repeatedly enter the lions den and come out sober - not until a few months work, and change.

D

tarebear29

Thanks Everyone! I guess I sounded like a dude, but I am definitely a girl! lol. The party was for a girl who went to High school with me, but my old drinking buddies (who are guys) were there. Just wanted to clarify.

lessgravity

I like both that Tare had to say (and the strength she showed) as well as Dee's suggestion about complacency.

We can never avoid booze entirely, at least not in the Western world. Your committment is impressive.

And akin to what Dee said I like "Eternal vigilance is the price of freedom"

AlefVavResh

Are you serious? You rock! Extra bonus points