Certain types of sobriety stories are annoying

Sobriety from alcohol, social media, sugar, smart devices, coffee, meat… Pick your poison.

Well, it’s YOUR poison. If it poisoned you for whatever reason, it doesn’t mean it poisons the rest of humanity, every waking hour.

Share your experience by all means. There are many stories of struggles with addictions. They are often profound and touching in their honesty and humility. The journeys of overcoming addiction should be shared. They can help others.

But then there are more fanatical and patronizing sobriety stories. Alcohol is never your friend, alcohol is a poison, and so on. Here is an example story. I quote “Nobody is a normal drinker, eventually, those people become addicted to alcohol.”

No.

Throughout our lives, we consume thousands of substances to sustain our bodily functions and for pleasure. We consume thousands of material goods for survival, comfort, and indulgence. Practically every possible substance that we ingest can have harmful effects, if not consumed in moderation. The problem is rarely with the substance, but with how it’s consumed or abused. It’s a choice.

The fanatics love accusing you of addiction.

Again — no.

There are dozens of things I do and I want and I enjoy on a regular basis. Running, listening to music, coffee, a couple of drinks in the evening, sex, reading, vegetables, nuts, and so on. Not all are directly beneficial…