As we say in the program, there is no such thing as coincidences.

Yesterday I started a reply to this post when the electricity went out briefly and knocked me off-line. I figured it was a sign from HP so I left the computer off. This morning I read in my meditation book about the very situation described in this post. Boiled down it said that this is a form of peer pressure and we need to handle it in a mature manner. If we are living the right way we can handle it.

We advise our kids how to handle peer pressure by being mature, saying no, etc. My self personally, I have found my own attitude and perception are very important. If I don't make a big deal most other people don't either. Social situations I smile and say I'm the designated driver. I'm usually with my hubby so it is generally accepted and we move on. In a business situation if it is mentioned I merely smile and say I want to keep my mind sharp and focused so I can keep an edge on my competition. I have found that it is becoming more acceptable to decline alcohol in a business situation. Even lunches or after work parties. Because I have a family it is much easier to decline an after work get-together. I realize that single people probably have a more difficult time. I find that if a person is making a big deal about my not drinking it is usually someone I don't really want to be around anyway.