By Christen McKey 
I made a promise to someone years ago.
It was a verbal plea mixed with tears and desperation, back in another life, when you two were just a peanut and a prayer. Even though that someone is no longer alive, the vow lives on. I’ll be honest, it’s not exactly a hard one to uphold at this point. It never really was to begin with. And now it’s more of a natural lifestyle than a conscious effort or a steadfast promise.
Tragedy and pain can change us, altering how we see certain aspects of life. Some details become less important, while others move to places of greater significance.
But some things are immutable. In case you don’t know, that means unchanging. Don’t worry, this isn’t a vocabulary lesson, and there won’t be a quiz later. But rest assured that some things will never change, like the very nature and character of God. But our perspectives can certainly evolve because views are personal, filtered through the lenses of our faith and life experiences. When circumstances knock us flat on our backs, for instance, the world can look a bit different than it did from our comfy seat atop our high horse.
Believe me, I know my outlook on this particular topic is not the popular opinion. You will soon learn that. But it’s okay. Because what is okay for others may not be okay for me. Or for you. I know you’ve heard me say that one before. Thank you for not rolling your eyes.
The last time I took a sip of alcohol was February 14, 2013. Around that time, I began to realize alcohol had no business being in my life. Just like secondhand smoke can affect the health of those nearby, secondhand drinking affects the health of a family. Alcohol in the wrong hands can become a weapon—a weapon of destruction to both the user and the bystanders. And I began to fear it.
While the liquid itself is nothing to be afraid of, the potential harm of alcohol use disorder (AUD) can be devastating. According to the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, “Alcohol-related problems continue to take a heavy toll on individuals, families, and communities. Researchers estimate that each year there are more than 178,000 alcohol-related deaths, making alcohol a leading preventable cause of death in the United States.”
I know, I know, I’m starting to sound like a research paper. But bear with me. You see, my dear loves, that statistic hits close to home. The home in which you began life. And life is what I want for you. A full life lived for God and all He has planned for you.
I made a promise to someone that I would not drink again, in hopes of helping him not drink again. While it was futile —because we cannot control others, no matter how hard we try—this decision to remove it from my life left a mark on me. His decision to allow it to become his life, and ultimately his death, left a mark as well. It’s one I’ll always carry with me. Just like you’ll always carry with you in half of your genes the potential for alcoholism. I know you are still a ways off from drinking age, but it’s never too early for awareness. I believe that is the key word for Alcohol Awareness Month.
Awareness—not judgment.
No judgment of those responsible adults who enjoy alcoholic beverages without any issues. No judgment of those who have a different view. No judgment of those struggling or those seeking help. Because we all struggle with something. We all need help in one way or another. I just want you to be aware.
Be aware that some things are just not worth the risk.
Be aware of your surroundings, situations, and temptations you may face.
Be aware of others around you and the situations and temptations they may face.
Be aware that saying “no, thank you” may be difficult. But the outcomes of saying “yes” may be a whole lot harder.
Be aware of the truth that nothing satisfies, soothes, calms, gives courage, or takes away guilt like Jesus.
And know no matter what, He loves you. And I love you.
That’s a promise made many years ago as well, and one that will never change.
With immutable love,
Mom
Originally published on the author’s blog
by Her View From Home 
by Celeste Yvonne 
by Mikala Albertson 
