The season of spiked eggnog and Irish cream or Kahlua-laden coffee has arrived.
Chances are many of us — if not most — are anticipating upcoming staff Christmas celebrations as well as any number of gatherings with friends and family over the holidays as we also prepare to ring in the new year.
And sometimes, getting into the spirit of the season involves, well, imbibing some spirits.
Sadly, the erroneous impression that a person cannot possibly have a great time while simultaneously being responsible still persists.
However, being responsible and partying are not necessarily mutually exclusive.
In fact, making arrangements in advance to get home safely might even alleviate the stress of uncertainty later. Cutting loose and enjoying a celebration becomes that much easier when one is not burdened by having to figure out how to get home safely afterwards.
But if despite all of the planning in the world, you or a friend find yourselves so much as even asking the question, “Am I OK to drive?” best to err on the side of caution and refrain from getting behind the wheel.
There simply is no legitimate excuse for making the conscious decision to drive impaired, by alcohol, cannabis or any substance that impacts one's judgment. The life you put at risk is not just your own but also that of others.
There is always a choice, even in a small town such as Sundre.
A designated driver is always a good bet, but might not be the most fun for the chauffeur.
There are a couple of local taxi services as well.
Additionally, another option — provided the weather is not too cold, the distance not too far and your ability to walk not completely compromised — is to leave your locked vehicle parked and simply head home on foot. Your truck or car will be there waiting the following morning when you return sober.
If worst comes to worst, friends or family would no doubt rather grant a spare bed or even some space on the couch or a foam or inflatable mattress on the floor than run the risk of allowing you to drive impaired.
Someone who’s trying to take away your keys is not being a party-pooping curmudgeon — quite the opposite. He or she clearly cares enough to want to see you again.
Because the last thing anybody wants at this time of year — or frankly any time of year for that matter — is to receive a heart-wrenching phone call from the RCMP bearing the worst possible news, forever tarnishing what should be a time to rejoice.
A brief lapse of judgment is all that is required to trigger a lifetime of painful regret.
Yet a little foresight is all it takes to circumvent a worst-case scenario and ensure a memorable holiday.
So think ahead, stay safe, and most importantly, enjoy yourselves.
Cheers!
