"The dipsomaniac and the abstainer are not only both mistaken, but they both make the same mistake. They both regard wine as a drug and not as a drink." Kingsley Amis
This, of course, echoes GKC's "Omar and the Sacred Vine."
Drink because you are happy, but never because you are miserable. Never drink when you are wretched without it, or you will be like the grey-faced gin-drinker in the slum; but drink when you would be happy without it, and you will be like the laughing peasant of Italy. Never drink because you need it, for this is rational drinking, and the way to death and hell. But drink because you do not need it, for this is irrational drinking, and the ancient health of the world.
It's May 1st, incidentally. I have officially declared May 1st as Opening Day of the Outdoor Drinking Season. We're incredibly blessed to have it fall on a Friday this year.
Because Outdoor Drinking Season has begun, you are now officially authorized to enjoy your beverages on the front porch. Expect to see me on mine, with mine, frequently. Few things are better. Next month, it gets a bit too hot and too buggy. But May and drink? It's one of the many things that make life worth living.
