i dont drink for anxiety reasons but how do i meet new ppl?

 i have come to the point in my life where i dont drink at all anymore and although i totally miss it i feel like my health is more important and i either end up with some anxiety thing after i drink or i just feel like i cant drink because i wont be in control of myself and i like to be, iam my only mentor with my mind and i dont take any meds i rely on myself, so i need to feel like i have everything underwraps with my thinking etc, and sometimes i cant even take a sip and ppl may think im a freak but i just cant do it and im happy without it i mean i miss it just for being social and for a light buzz not to get drunk but my issue is how do i get out and meet new ppl or a new guy if i dont drink this is all foreign to me because i have always been able to have a drink and now i feel like i cant, will ppl accept me, how does it all work? what if i meet a guy and he wants to drink and i say no and he asks why what do i say then, what should i do???  

Hey O.S.:)

I agree with Melodee. I would rather meet people that don't drink than those who drink too much and get obnoxious!

I think that someone who is smart and caring is going to understand and respect your decision...and if he/she doesn't, then of course they are not worth your time.

After having an alcoholic father, and first husband, I can tell you that it would be a great thing for you to meet a guy who abstains, or drinks only in moderation. This person is not going to question or pressure you on your choice, because he has a similar conduct.

I have always been careful with alcohol (since I am predispositioned with my family history to have a problem with it) and when the shots are being passed around, I stick to my glass of wine (or soda!) and smile and watch every one else get 'stoopid'.

I feel like I have never been excluded in any social activity and that my friends, and aquaintances have always been fine, impressed, or indifferent to my lifestyle.

You have to do what's right for your health, and you are doing it! Stand tall and be proud of that...not worrying about what anyone will say:)

Cheers...with a seltzer water!
S.C.