Question from Readers:
What do people who can’t drink alcohol think during parties? Rie Kuwabata’s comments have sparked discussion, but for those of us who are not fond of alcohol, we are curious about how we feel when everyone around us is having a good time. How should we interact with intoxicated friends? Can we keep up with the conversation? Sometimes,
we may feel uncomfortable. In that context, we want to know what thoughts and feelings arise.
My Memories of Parties as a Non-Drinker
Hello! Recently, I’ve been thinking a lot about the feelings of those who can’t drink alcohol. I also struggle with alcohol, and I always have a soft drink in hand at gatherings. I’d like to share my experiences and feelings during these events.
Observant Eye Amid Enjoyable Conversations
When alcohol is involved, it’s honestly a bit enviable to see those around me becoming more cheerful. However, I enjoy being there, especially with close friends, as it allows me to relax and have fun. Joining in on the conversation is enjoyable, and I often find myself immersed in the food, thinking things like, “This dish is delicious!” or “Can I recreate this flavor at home?” Observing my intoxicated friends and colleagues can also be quite entertaining. Once, a drunken friend suddenly began sharing old memories, causing everyone around to burst into laughter. In that moment, I couldn’t help but wonder how much of his memory was accurate, but we all shared a joyful time together. His behavior while intoxicated was a stark contrast to his usual serious self, and it was a delightful revelation.
Discomfort and How to Deal with It
However, there are definitely moments where I feel uncomfortable as someone who doesn’t drink. Particularly when a drunken boss starts to engage with me, I sometimes think, “I just want to go home.” But during those times, I try to lighten the mood by laughing along with those around me. Additionally, during split bills, I sometimes feel like I’m losing out. I think to myself, “Is it fair to pay the same amount when I’m not drinking?” Yet, seeing my friends enjoying themselves makes me tend to hold back my complaints.
Share Your Experiences!
Ultimately, I believe that even for those of us who can’t drink, there are plenty of ways to have fun. The most important thing is to laugh together and enjoy the food. If you have any stories or enjoyable experiences from times when you couldn’t drink, please share them in the comments! Let’s find ways to enjoy gatherings together by sharing our experiences!
