Well, when I was about 8, my dad went into A.A. and has been successfully sober for about 10 years now. I can't really remember how he acted or what his role was [as a father] affected by alcohol, when I was little; but my older sisters say that although he was not verbally nor physically abusive or hostile, his alcoholism wasn't good for the family.
I kind of have that fear, if I start drinking casually, I'll end up like him - that, right there, is direct influence not to drink.....
I have had drinks before, albeit very rarely, probably one every few months, if that. My sisters are very casual drinkers as well, I find them more annoying when they're drinking as well. It's pretty ironic, that among the four of us [me, and my sisters ages 23, 27, and 29] I probably drink the least, although I have the access to it as well; since my sister offer to buy it for me and my friends whenever, as long as we don't drive - but I don't take them up on their offer
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Also at my age, 18 in the U.S., going to college this fall, alcohol will no doubt be present [it is already amongst my friends somewhat] but I'd prefer hanging with kids who don't need it to have a good time
If you need such a thing as alcohol at a party to enjoy the party, then I think you might have some sort of problem or complex.
Lastly, the taste and nutritional value of it doesn't appeal to me one bit either. Plus, the financial costs of it add up quicky, shown by my sisters' bar tabs.