Emotional distance

A counselor once advised me that alcohol put "emotional distance" between the drinker and his family. That was twelve years ago, and I remember it still because it touches what matters most to me - the family - and because, unlike a lot of criticisms about drinking that I can rationalize or dismiss, this one rings true.

For example, I like to think I'm available and open to my children. I can recall, however, instances of being just too sleepy to follow what they were saying. Alcohol isn't the only thing that can preclude emotional connection, and I don't say I can't drink and still be a sensitive dad, but at least a period of abstinence makes me more aware of what it costs me to drink. I'll know what to look out for next time I do.