Beer in McDonald's

Yes

Thats another reason I never have, and never will; it is an addiction. No different than smoking, or taking drugs; they all rot your body, and they are addictive. My dad used to drink a lot when he was younger, and my grandad still does drink quite a bit, and that is yet another reason I don't want to do it. There are plenty of reasons TO do it, like you have said, but they are far outweighed by the bad things.

And you're right !!

You speak as though anyone who drinks alcohol will ultimately become addicted to it and become a raging alcoholic, wasting his/her life away. I don't see these kind of people as I walk through the high street on a Saturday. Do you?

If you are sensible and mature you will know when enough is enough.

I was at a house party once. I saw a mildly attractive girl with large breasts. I didn't know her and had never spoken to her before. I went up to her and asked if I could feel one of her breasts. She said yes so I did. We were both drunk. That was fun.

just out of interest, were you born with a silver spoon in your mouth?

No.

Maybe your parents are too over-protective. Tell them you are going to see BJ in Manchester. You don't need their permission. Also, did they tell you not to 'get into drinking and getting drunk'?

To be honest, I think they'd have no objections if I wanted to drink. My dad used to go to the pub with my grandad (his dad) when he was 15.

My mum and dad used to drink when they where younger, but now it's very rare that they do.

You ignorant views to alcohol and its affects are causing you to miss out. You're not going to turn into an alcoholic by getting drunk a couple of times a week. Maybe when you are 18 you will think differently; maybe it is just your fear of being refused service at the bar that is holding you back. You will learn when you go to university.

i) Yet another reason not to do it; peer pressure.

ii) I look older than 18, and have done so for a while. I have had no problems buying 18 rated movies/games, etc, or being accepted to other 18 only places.

iii) When I do go to University (this autumn) I will be living at home, as the University is only a train ride away...plus, student accomodation in Liverpool is about £70 per week, and that's not how I want to spend my money.

Uhhh..addiction is hereditary Penrose. It has nothing to do with being sensible and mature. There has been extensive research to prove this. Why would you ask if Thomas was born with a silver spoon in his mouth, just because he chooses not to drink? Kind of ignorant, wouldn't you say?? It's his life and if he chooses not to drink, it really is of no concern to you. You shouldn't pass judgement on him just because he doesn't do what you do.

Penrose seems to be as everknowing as krb102. And they are both teachers. And both from England.