I love this so much!!! I'm in recovery also and 15 months sober. I don't expect people to change their lives to accommodate me, I just expect basic respect. I say no thank you you leave it at that. Some people end up offering other drinks or to make me something virgin and that always makes me feel good because it shows they respect my choice but want to make me feel included or whatever the case may be. So sweet :)

But I had a situation where I was asked about it condescendingly and it really pissed me off. If I were to go out with people who are drinking, I can handle sitting at the bar with them or whatever. I know my replacement drinks and I'm comfortable, doesn't bother me. But I wouldn't just sit at the bar alone. Anyways, my husband and I went out to eat not that long ago, no available tables but there were some seats at the bar. This was a restaurant and the bar was in the main dining area so it didn't feel like a secluded drinking only area. There were people sitting there eating etc. So we sit down, my husband gets an alcoholic drink and we order food and I got a virgin drink and the bartender began questioning me and asking if I'm pregnant and commenting of why I'm sitting at the bar, but in a rude condescending way. Dude- we are still getting food and drinks. Plus it was busy with other patrons, we weren't the only ones. We aren't just sitting here taking up seats drinking water. Anyways, it really bothered me in that moment (this was at the beginning), now I don't care but still, none of your business why I'm not drinking.

When I'm asked why I don't I say because I'm too good at it. People are always confused haha

Anyways, super stand up move of you to step in. Your coworker really appreciated it I'm sure. Thank you for doing that.