Why You Should Think Twice Before Gifting Someone Alcohol This Holiday Season Mindfulness

The cabernet stared at me from where I left it on the counter. When I left the room, went upstairs or even pushed my son on his backyard swing, I could feel it watching. She couldn't have known, my sweet neighbor, that instead of a thoughtful holiday present, she really gifted me a bomb. 

At night when my son was snug in his crib and my husband not quite home from work, I shut myself in the bedroom to put more distance between that red bottle and my fingertips. Finally, the arrival of recycling day brought needed relief as I dumped it straight into the bin and saw it get carted away. Fire extinguished, I continue to count up sober days. 

This year, when you choose gifts for those you appreciate, remember that avoiding vices is a great service for anyone on your list. Gift cards may seem impersonal or “too safe,” but sometimes safe is a wonderful thing.

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