Is Dating Possible Without Alcohol?

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Published By: 1World Online

Whenever a man asks a woman out on a date, the inevitable question arises of: “Would you like to go out for a drink?” Depending on the answer, a relationship can quickly begin to flourish, or it can derail faster than a freight train running out of track.

“I don’t drink, sorry.”

“No problem. I’ll call you back tomorrow.”

Enjoying a few alcoholic drinks while out on a date or even in a long time intimate relationship is one of the most common ways people use to socialize. It makes them feel all warm and fuzzy inside and loosens their personal inhibitions.

But is it necessary to have alcohol present in a relationship? Is it a prerequisite to even start or maintain one with someone you feel attracted to and would like to spend the rest of your life with?

The answer to that question could raise some serious complications – if it is indeed a necessity. For some relationships, it may not a factor, for other relationships, it could become a serious handicap.

Of course, we all know that there is nothing wrong with drinking, as long as it is done responsibly and does not interfere or cause problems in our life. After all, who doesn’t enjoy imbibing on a casual basis and having lots of fun?

When we look at a possible soul mate though, we have to examine where our priorities lie, and where that person’s priorities also lie. Can we only have fun with them and enjoy their company when we are drinking? Can we only communicate and agree on the terms of life with them when alcohol is present?

It is a serious question and one which most people like to avoid. Inevitably, though that nasty little variable seems to show its ugly face later on in lots of relationships.

I always thought it was amusing how on dating sites people are asked whether or not they smoke or drink. It is a reasonable question, however, and a smart one, but why is it okay if you don’t smoke, but you do drink? Is it okay to go out on a date and drink and drive as long as you don’t blow that nasty cigarette smoke in my face?

People tend to have some odd values and like to spin “likes” and “dislikes” to their advantage. That practice encompasses what makes us human though and defines who we really are.

One person’s definition of fun can be another person’s destructive behavior. When two people forge a relationship what they see from the beginning sets the mark for failure or success. If alcohol needs to be present in that relationship, then those two people better prepare themselves for a lifetime of misery.

There are lots of people who don’t drink, and there are lots of people who do drink, but do it responsibly – for them, alcohol is not an issue.

If you require that the person you are dating drink every time you go out or socialize, then you may want to examine what your own priorities in life are also.

A happy, healthy relationship with a successful future should not be dependent on the consumption of alcohol. If it is, then maybe the relationship should not exist at all.

 

Joseph E. Rathjen is a freelance writer and an Opinion Writer at 1World Online – America’s Fastest Growing Social Research Engine.