Dr Bethany Sollereder is back to answer those difficult life questions. This week:
When is it too early to start drinking?
Expert opinions vary on this important existential question. In a global community, the adage “it’s always 5 o’clock somewhere” means that you do find yourself mixing martini’s after matins in order to join the party your friends are virtually hosting in Hawaii. This is completely normal in the 21st century, and totally acceptable as long as the martini includes freshly squeezed and not canned pineapple. Canned pineapple is an abomination.
As a student of history, however, I think we should always be drawing on the wisdom of our forebearers. Those who have walked the paths of life before us and handed down their wisdom, experience and knowledge.
John Wesley, the accidental founder of Methodism, Anglican priest, famous theologian and preacher had this to say about the proper time to hit the bottle: “No child should touch any spiritous or fermented Liquor before two years old…. Tea they should never taste, till ten or twelve years old.” (The Primitive Physick, 1776, 42)
So, next time you feel yourself scratching your head, furrowing your brow, wondering about whether it is too early to drink, just remember that if it is time for tea, it is long since time to drink “spirituous or fermented liquor.”
Trust me, I’m a doctor.
Smart too!
Do you have a problem with which Dr Bethany can help? Drop her an email or leave your questions in the comments below. You’ll be surprised by the breadth of her wisdom and knowledge!
Disclaimer: Dr Bethany Sollereder is a Postdoctoral Fellow in Science and religion, specialising in theology concerning evolution and the problem of suffering. Bethany is not a medical doctor or professional psychologist; she just likes to help. If you follow her guidance, we’re absolutely not responsible for the chaos that may ensue. We’re not insured for this.
Also, our Premises Licence (05/01522/PREM) only allows for the supply of alcohol between 12pm and 11pm.
A more serious note: While this article is tongue-in-cheek, there are times that some of us may face alcohol-related challenges or alcohol-dependency. The College’s Welfare Team are always here to listen and help you find the right support. Your GP and Turning Point Oxford are also there to help.
