What Kind of Drinker Were You?

People ask me what kind of drinker were you?  A seemingly innocent question that closet alcoholics ask when they are interested in comparing just how just how bad you were so they can exclaim:  I was never that bad.  

Comparing vs. identifying is one precept that AAers remind the newcomer about.  Identifying with another  leads the alcoholic with much more food for his own introspection.  Comparison on the other hand usually leads the comparer to the conclusion that his drinking habits are just fine thank you very much.  

Alcoholism is not a comparison Dis-Ease because some are sicker than others and the toxin does different things to different people at different times of the day and life.  But let’s get back to the question at hand. What kind of a drinker were you?  Kind of puts you in a position that is open for wide interpretation. The quick easy response is: One that drank too much. Simple but effective and one that will close off further discussion unless the question comes from someone that might be serious about their own condition.  Usually however it’s not the answer they’re looking for. They want to hear stories of DWI, mayhem and wild drunken behavior that led to dire consequences.  

Those lurid details are best kept close to the vest and shared with your sponsor or clinician or even a member of clergy. If we do take the bait we become the sideshow act that leaves us looking like the fool for someone that cares very little if at all.  All covered up with a hearty laugh at our expense.

What kind of drinker were you?  The kind bad dreams were made of.