Learning to cope with peer pressure
by Adina Wixom Lloyd
 

How?

Learn to say no!  Sooner or later, you will have to decide what is of greatest value to you.  If not, you will be blown wherever the wind happens to dump you.  Think about it.  Disciplining yourself brings self-respect...and self-respect is the greatest wonder drug in the world.

Le me give you an example.

I was invited out to dinner and dancing one evening.  It was our first date together.  Another couple was with us but I did not know them.

I was surprised and a little upset when they all ordered alcoholic drinks.  A lot of drinks.  The girl with us asked me why I didn't drink.  I laughed a little and said, "I only drink milk."

She enjoyed making fun of me and repeated, "You drink only milk!" and shrugged her shoulders, seemingly in disgust.  She said I was "too good" and "not a very good sport."

Well, after dinner, I asked them to drive me home.  I didn't feel safe.  Besides, the dance was out of town.

The boy walked me to my door and said, "Good night; be good and believe me, you are."

To my surprise, the girl got out of the car and came marching to my door.  She put her hand on my shoulder and said, "I want you to know I admire you a lot and respect you.  I wish I could be just like you, but I go along with the crowd.  Forgive me for being rude tonight.  I like you a lot."

Why follow the crowd if you really don't want to?  Do your own thinking!  Others will wonder what you are up to.  Most will even envy you for having a plan of your own.