by Trent Rosser
This Saturday night, the spirits will be high. The spirits of ringing out the old year and ringing in a New Year. There will also be the spirits of wine, champagne and other alcoholic drinks. This is something I was not sure to write about, but I think with this time of year, it would be a perfect time. Some of you already know, I am a recovering alcoholic. My last drink was over 7 years ago. Now don’t get me wrong, I am not saying that everyone who drinks is an alcoholic, I am just saying that, I am an alcoholic. I did not and still do not know how to drink responsibly. I would drink until I passed out or there was nothing else to drink. I could pass the blame on my family (they say that alcoholism is hereditary). I could blame it on losing my son when he was miscarried, or I could blame it on the accident when a truck tire exploded next to me. In reality, I have no one to blame but me. Yes, I did have quite a few good times back when I was drinking and I still have funny stories to tell. Like when a buddy and I were out on the back roads one winter drinking (before the open container law) and we had a flat. We would get out, pull off a lug nut, jump back in the truck, get warm and drink a beer. Then get out, pull off another lug nut and get back in the truck and drink another beer. It took about 3 hours to change that tire, and when we were finished...we changed the wrong dang tire!
It was not always fun and games. Waking up with a hangover you can’t function like you should. I lost my family and again, it is no one’s fault but my own. Now that I have quit drinking, my family and I are closer than ever. Some people can handle the drink and some can’t. I am one of the ones that can’t. I just tell everyone that I am allergic to alcohol; I break out in a severe case of handcuffs. It is fun being a designated driver though. As you’re driving everyone home, tell them you need gas for your vehicle, and stop at every gas station on the way! They may think that you have horrible gas mileage, but will could easily walk away with $50 to $100 extra dollars in your pocket! And, if someone is getting really annoying, you can drop them off at their parent’s house, or worse yet, their in-laws house. That could be fun.
A new year is a time for new beginnings. It is customary to eat black eyed peas for good luck for the New Year. I, myself, am going to try to get out more and try to get into better shape. That will be tough for me due to my wife’s tasty cooking. It is also a time to let go of the past, or at least, come to terms with the past. I have made many mistakes back in my drinking days, and I still continue to make mistakes. Yes, I do regret some, but I am thankful for all the mistakes and things I have done in my life. For it was these mistakes, that have made me the man I am today. As you go out this Saturday, have fun but be responsible. Do not drink and drive. That is a horrible combination and could take a life. It could also land you in jail with a criminal record, even if you do not hurt anyone. If you feel that you might have had a bit too much to drink, find a ride. On this day some taxi companies will offer a free ride. Or get a ride from a friend. Also, if you feel like you might have a drinking problem; it is not too late to get help. If I can function without alcohol, then anyone can. For anyone that is seeking help with alcohol please call 1-888-328-2518. There are also places here in town thank can help, Hobbs plaza, Moss lane and Top of Texas just to name a few.
In conclusion, I want to wish everyone a Happy and prosperous New Year. Have fun and be safe, but remember the designated drivers. We do not want to drop you off at your in-laws, but we will!
(Update) I wrote this on Monday the day after Christmas. Tuesday morning I received a call from an old friend. His brother (also an old friend and old roommate of mine) committed suicide on Christmas morning. This is another act of alcoholism. If you or anyone you know are thinking about suicide, please get help. Please call 1-800-273-8255 Mankind has been around for thousands of years and there are billions of people on this earth. Other people have felt hopeless and have made it out. You can too. Please call the numbers for help. At least give them a chance. God Bless each and everyone.
