I you became diabetic and had to give up eating sweets would you have a problem talking about that?

I just don't feel I need to share to anyone and everyone. I come on here for a reason, to discuss it with people who understand. I don't have a problem telling people I don't drink, I just don't feel comfortable telling my story of what happened.

I think that if you look a person in the eye, tell them no thanks, smile, perhaps ask for water or juice.............if they continue to hound you it is odd on their part, and rude. I have been at gatherings and done this, and I am looked at strange, but I continue to smile and meet their eyes, not acting like anything is wrong, I just don't want booze. I have only had people who are buzzed give me a hard time, social drinkers who limit it usually can be a bit puzzled if you normally drink but do not push it. It is no ones business, and entirely up to you what you ingest! People who are bothered by it may be projecting some of their own struggles, I have found.

I do not believe we should make up stories to appease others-don't say you cannot have it because you are pregnant, on a diet, medication interaction, etc. (unless this is true)....because I believe it will make you lose some respect for yourself to do this. Simply do not give an explanation if you do not want to drink. It is so simple-we make it really complicated though as we think we owe others insight into our struggles. Perhaps we do for some, but those will not be the folks we break the news of our alcoholism to at a party because they are pushing booze on us!

Just tell them you chose not to drink. Ask them why they drink, turn the table on them.

I must say the more people you let know you have a problem the more people you will find that need help. Some of my good friends has come to me about advice, and I was happy to be there for them. The only regret I have is telling people who I though was my friends at work. Now when ever something comes up for me they assume it has to do with my past.

I haven't told anyone at work or discussed it at all. There is enough drama and overanalyzing about everyone that I do not want that to be something to gossip about.

I think all real and true friends deserve to simply hear the truth if they ask. I made it a priority to tell my close friends ahead of time to keep the ball in my court and it was well worth it. If it is acquaintances you are getting frustrated with, then try to be positive and don't over think it. A simple "I'm making some changes and have quit to focus on the future and Nursing school" is the truth without having to dwell on things that make you uncomfortable at this point in your sobriety.
I'm positive that further down the road you will look at the feelings you are having now and have a different stand point on it. So much changes emotionally day to day in the begining, but the clouds do clear! Sounds like th are doing very well though. Just learn to take a breath at times of frustration and let this 1st month humble you a bit.
-Matt

thanks matt, you always know just what to say

i am around allot of folks that drink. my sons and their friends ( all young men ). when i actually quit 8 months ago it only took one time to let them know i don't drink anymore.. so far all have been very understanding. i have only been offered once and i just said no thanks, and pass one of those ice cold waters!! i only have one friend and he quit 5 years ago and has been instrumental in my recovery.. thanks to him i started quitting over two years ago. a little at a time.. until i new i was ready.
i think matt hit it on the head... take care and be well.