"Dry January" is upon us, where people attempt to go a month without drinking. I think it's a good thing for people to try as it's a reminder of how prevalent booze is.
Alcohol holds a contradictory place in society. We celebrate it at our happiest moments while acknowledging its role in ruining lives. It stars in ads showing glamorous lifestyles, yet presents many examples to the contrary.
Society presents a 'booze goldilocks zone' where moderate drinking is expected, while abstinence and excess are both frowned upon. The wine connoisseur with dinner is sophisticated, the one who finishes the bottle is an alcoholic, and the abstainer is a buzzkill - pushed by friends to "just have one" because "a little won't hurt."
Those battling alcohol face a cruel challenge - society and brain chemistry work in tandem to start drinking, making each social event a test of will against addiction.
It seems like more and more it's becoming okay to not drink, which I feel is a positive trend.
