My partner and I enjoy consuming alcohol, sometimes more than we probably should. Our home is stocked with beer, and after a recent shopping trip, we have a couple of cases of wine. Various bottles of hard liquor can be found in our basement, while the beer and wine are readily available in the fridge.
We have two teenage boys who often spend their time gaming or hanging out with friends. Recently, a friend of mine asked me where we “secured our alcohol.” When I explained that most of it is on a shelf in the basement, she reacted with disbelief. How could I be so relaxed about alcohol being accessible to teenagers without close supervision? Did I really not consider the risks? A wave of anxiety washed over me as I pictured my boys sneaking a drink.
But then I paused to reflect. Would they actually experiment with the beer or whiskey? I doubted it; they could hardly remember to do their chores, let alone figure out how to open a bottle of wine. The thought of them potentially getting drunk raised a flurry of what-ifs. What if they decided to take a sip? What if one of their friends dared them to try it? I could almost hear the phone call: “Your son is drunk and needs a ride home.” The implications of such a situation were daunting.
As I contemplated these scenarios, I also recognized the qualities of my boys. They excel in their studies, adhere to their curfews, and demonstrate respect and good manners. I trust them not to engage in reckless behavior. They know right from wrong, and I believe they would think twice before sampling the whiskey, knowing how unpleasant it can be.
In their younger years, I didn’t hide knives or lock up cabinets. I aimed for them to understand boundaries, to ask questions, and to learn from their experiences. They’ve heard stories of my teenage misadventures, and while I’m not proud of those choices, they provided valuable lessons. My boys are aware that I was once trusted in the same way I trust them now, and I acknowledge that making mistakes is part of growing up.
I recognize that my kids are not perfect and that they may still make poor choices. However, I choose not to lock up our alcohol. I am a mother who learned from her own teenage decisions and engages in open conversations about drinking, safe practices, honesty, and making responsible choices. I have high expectations for them, while maintaining boundaries that should not be crossed. I only hope that they are absorbing these lessons while we continue to have a well-stocked supply of alcohol at home.
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Summary
In this article, the author discusses the decision to keep alcohol accessible in their home despite having teenage children. She reflects on trust, responsibility, and the importance of open communication about choices and consequences. The piece emphasizes the belief that fostering trust and honesty is more beneficial than creating a restrictive environment.
Keyphrase: alcohol accessibility in homes with teenagers
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