Sherry, your honesty cuts through the noise like a blade. The push-pull of desire and restraint, the negotiation with oneself—this is the real conversation about alcohol that too many avoid. It’s not just about drinking or not drinking; it’s about how we relate to ourselves in moments of craving, anxiety, or even boredom. Your piece highlights something fundamental: whether it’s alcohol, work, relationships, or even our thoughts, we all wrestle with patterns that promise relief but often deliver regret. The way forward isn’t just about quitting—it’s about understanding what we’re really after. Keep writing. This conversation matters.