Quote:
Originally Posted by
blackjack 
You might not realize how many people do not drink but don't necessarily telecast it to everyone. We're not talking about the obvious ones - Mormons, devout Muslims, wacky Christians, recovered alcoholics who want everyone to know ... and right down to pregnant women and under-age kids.
I found out there are quite a few who always appear to be drinking but aren't. Either they're drinking a tonic (without the gin) or even if they have a beer that's been handed to them, they're not drinking from it, and ditch it when no one is looking. If caught or cornered in a formal dinner situation where wine might be served, they might bow out explaining that they had a rough night and are on the wagon for now. Unless you're observing them with a purpose, chances are you'd never know. Sleight of hand goes a long way.
I wouldn't say I don't drink (because I do), but I almost never drink to the point of drunkenness, even when people are getting drunk around me. I never pretend to be drinking when I'm not, but I'll usually just quietly stop or greatly slow down the pace after two drinks.
Some part of that is due to me being on a medication which makes me sick for days after getting drunk (nausea lasting 2-2.5 days later). However, I also just don't really enjoy being
drunk. I'm ok being slightly tipsy, but much more than that just gets unpleasant and/or just makes me tired. All of my friends are cool with me drinking less than them. It works out for all of us, because it means I can drive people around on a night out.