There's a lot of confusion and some consternation over the "straight edge lifestyle." Some fringe groups who follow what you could call the orthodox version of this way of life are organized into gangs or cult-like arrangements with high levles of violence involved.

Not at all saying that's what you guys here are up to! :no: :no: :no:

This straight edge lifestyle actually poses a lot of admirable behaviors to adopt. It's easy to see why not everyone can do it given the society we live in.

I'm not a drinker nor are any of my friends. One buddy recounted how he was at a party one time and they kept offering him drinks to the point of being antagonistic. His hosts couldn't seem to accept the fact he wanted nothing stronger than a ginger ale! The hassling got so strong he eventually blurted out, "I'm an alcoholic!" just to get them to stop pushing the booze. :p

We are living in a "have it your way right away" society. The pressure to "join in" pervades the social scene. "You're not having sex? Something must be wrong with you!" "You're not toking the joint? Man, you're way too uptight!" :rolleyes

I don't think I could live the true straight edge lifestyle. I'm not a casual shagger, but I have done that on occasion and I don't feel the need to limit myself any further. :drop:

About prescribed medicines and pain killers...Both my parents have had to take pills to help them with chronic ailments that often had worse side-effects than the conditions that lead to them being medicated! I'm not suggestion anybody throw away your pills, but don't use them like a candy crutch as so many others do.

I wish you fellows good luck in living this lifestyle. It'll take a lot of character and fortitude to keep up with it, but we all know y'all have plenty of that already. :yes: :D :yes: