This is an interesting topic Tom, thank you for posting this.
I too am an alcoholic and never engaged in drug use. Your brother does have a point in that “alcohol” is much more available at a public level than drugs such as cocaine, crack, meth. Alcohol is much more socially accepted. That being said, if you want alcohol or drugs, you will find it, no matter what you have to do or where you have to go. I have found lately that people find it odd if someone doesn’t drink alcohol.(Unless you’re at an AA function) I have my doubts anyone would ask “Why not?” if I said I don’t do drugs – but questions are asked when alcohol use (or lack there of) is in question
I recently had a discussion with my husband about how liquor stores and companies promote their products, but fail to put any of their profits and resources into helping those who are alcoholic. Should they???? I don’t know what the answer is to that. It makes me think of weight loss and healthy eating. Is it Old Dutch or Lay’s duty to promote weight loss programs? Again, I don’t know.
Ultimately, it is our own decision to do or not to do, regardless of what the addiction is.
I certainly would love to see these companies make more resources available to those who still suffer. For now, it’s up to us to carry the message of recovery.
🙂
Jodi