For me, the decision to abstain from alcohol was easy. But what I’ve come to learn in my sixteen years’ experience is that decisions mean nothing without resolve. My resolve has come with my understanding.
I know why underage drinking is wrong. I recognize its harmful effects. I see them all around me. I’ve seen the best sink to the worst as a direct result of alcohol. I’ve seen kids who’ve screwed up their lives, who’ve denied their full potential. Who knows the difference they could’ve made? Who knows the opportunities they could’ve had? Their character has been shaped.
I suppose I’m being a little melodramatic here, but I firmly believe that the choices we make now will eventually guide us to our destiny. And underage drinking, in all its forms, with all its consequences (regardless of severity), is an unnecessary restraint. Why would I willingly take that on? Why would I willingly do something from which I have everything to lose and absolutely nothing to gain? Why would I willingly inhibit myself from becoming the best person I can be, from reaching my potential to its fullest extent? Why would I willingly make that decision?
If you are a parent of a teen struggling with this decision, you might wonder how I came to realize all of this—how I was able to make my decision with absolute resolve. While I can’t really give a complete answer (without getting into a deep philosophical discussion as to “why I am the way I am”…), I can tell you that most of my resolve has come from the resolve of my exemplars. My own parents don’t drink, and have made a point of explaining this to me from a very young age. Nothing in my life has been as effective as this steady example. While communication is important and beneficial, your own example of responsible drinking is absolutely necessary. I can tell you from experience. Your decisions are as important as theirs.
--Abby, Mesa--