Q: Is it OK to be there, at the party, and just not drink?

Again, people argue this point all of the time.

Some say, “if I’m there and I don’t drink, I can be a good example for God”.
Others say, “if you go at all, you’re basically approving of what’s going on there, by your very presence”.

The question is, “What am I going to accomplish by going? By not going?”

Yes, maybe by going and not drinking you’ll be a good example, but that isn’t enough of a reason to go. There are plenty of other places, times and opportunities to be that example. Too often, going under the “being an example” reason is a justification we use. It’s natural. I used to do it, too. That doesn’t make it right.

By not going, that makes a statement, too.

Don’t forget, while you may be “mature” enough to stand the temptation, or to handle it, there are others (many of whom you may not realize) who might not want to go, but don’t want to stand out. There are others who, if given another option, would rather not be in a situation that will put their spiritual and physical life in jeopardy.

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