Friday, July 25, 2008

One Year Commitment

I sent out this e-mail today to everyone on my mailing list. I wanted to share it with you. Let me know what you think...

Friends and Family,

I am writing to you today in order to make my decision public and therefore, official.  Today, before God and you as my witnesses, I have promised myself that I will not drink alcohol for one year.  Those of you that know me well know that I do not drink very often and thankfully, I have never struggled with a desire for alcohol.  I never understood it. When I am thirsty, I drink something that will quench my thirst. Alcohol has the opposite effect on me; it sometimes burns as it goes down and it makes me sweat. What I do understand and have seen firsthand, is how alcohol can affect people I care about and how it can put a strain on friendships.  

I don't do this because I think drinking alcohol is wrong. I strongly believe that it is wrong to lose control because of it. I do this because I do not want anyone to sin because of me (1st Corinthians 8). I make this promise to remember my dad, who struggled with alcoholism for 20 years before God changed his life.  I make this pledge for my childhood friend, who continually drowns his memories from war in a bottle. Lastly, I do this for those who stay up late at night worrying about their loved ones. 

Sincerely,

Pedro F. Navas

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