"No thanks, I don't drink!"
 

I dont know about you guys, but this phrase used to get the worst responses from people.

1. Oh you are on the wagon huh?
2. Oh, somebody cant handle their liquor!
3. Oh come on, just one drink wont hurt!
4. Jeez, what do you do for fun then?
5. What are ya, an alcoholic?

Now though, it is very different.

1. Oh, good for you!
2. Congratulations!
3. I sure wish i could quit!
4. God, you must feel great!
5. I dont know how you get through life without it!

It seems to me that more and more people are realizing something that has traditionally been so socially acceptable is actually a real problem for millions of people. More people are starting to give praise to those of us who decided to cut it out of our lives. Remember that the next time you get the urge to drink and throw away however long you have been sober.

There are a lot of people who wish they were as strong as you!

The new in thing: "oh, i'll just have club soda. I dont drink!"

I have been saying, " No thanks I don't drink." for a year, "I'll have a glass of water please." No one ever says anything or even seems to notice. I was surprised. But, I like it.

I think there's a big change too C23. :)

Thanks for this, C23. I loved how you expressed all that and you should be proud of yourself. I am open about my reasons for not drinking and find that people are usually really supportive of that. Over here in the UK, I think more people struggle with alcohol than we realise and it has become a real problem. Hopefully one that will calm down over time.

I second that. A week ago I was congratulated for not drinking by several people who were drinking at the time. No pressure to have a drink with them at all.