I found out recently that an old timer from the AA meetings had passed away. I had liked him immediately for his terse kernels of wisdom. He used to say, "If you don't want to get drunk, don't pick up a drink." It took me a while to internalize this-hard as it may seem for such a simple statement-but now I miss hearing it from him. I think everyone would do well to find a mantra like this and repeat it every day until it penetrates those liquor-soaked heads of ours. Don't pick it up and the madness will stay in check for another day. Here's wishing another sober 24 to all.