| It's a huge stereotype, but wine is a common accompaniment to supper in Europe. And it is not limited to grown ups necessarily.
I think, sometimes, by expecting virtuous conduct, or moral conduct, or whatever it's called, we err on the side of making alcohol taboo.
Obviously, it's not for kids to consume. But when the teenage years begin... I think we should teach moderation rather than impose an actual threshold for consumption.
Eighteen makes sense inasmuch as, legally, parents are responsible for their children's actions up until that point. Most of the time anyway, we all know certain criminal behaviours have changed that. But, for the most part, they're legally responsible. And so, when the young adult becomes legally responsible for their actions... then it's as good a time as any to grant them that legal right to alcohol consumption.
But I do think it would be better to approach alcohol consumption as every other thing in life. It's a right, but one that is balanced with responsibilities. Just like everything else in life. __________________  Sunny
"The work goes on, the cause endures, the hope still lives, and the dream shall never die." avie by Jessie |