Chapter 1: My Early Relationship with Alcohol

In my youth, I was not particularly fond of drinking. Occasionally, I would enjoy a beer, but it was infrequent. However, during my later college years and shortly after graduation, I found myself more deeply involved in a social circle centered around drinking.

After college, my job required extensive travel, leading me from one hotel to another, often with the same colleagues. While away from home, we had little to occupy our time, so we frequently ended up in bars. At times, we sought out a bar as our regular meeting spot, while other times, we would dine at hotels where we would end up having a drink with coworkers, often extending the evening until late.

Yet, when I was at home and not working, I rarely indulged in alcohol. There was a moment when I purchased a case of beer—one that I used to enjoy with friends. However, when left alone with the beer, I realized it didn’t taste nearly as good as I remembered. The experience of drinking with friends had significantly enhanced its flavor.

During a gathering one evening, I sipped a beer and suddenly recognized that my fondness for beer had vanished. That was the last time I consumed a beer. I occasionally enjoyed a glass of wine during dinner, but due to my infrequent drinking, even one glass would be enough to leave me feeling tipsy, which often spoiled the experience. Consequently, I decided to step away from drinking altogether.

Chapter 2: A Decade of Change

This transformation occurred around ten years ago. I still occasionally cook with wine or brandy, but it’s quite rare. When I go out with friends, I often choose not to drink, and surprisingly, everyone is perfectly content with this arrangement. I've encountered a few women who have inquired if I am part of a twelve-step program or adhere to a strict religious doctrine, but the truth is, I simply lost my taste for alcohol and have no desire to revisit that part of my life.