Shall I Start to Drink? Decide for Yourself

Author: Father John C. Ford, Society of Jesus

Publisher: The Queen's Work

Publication Year: 1952

Length: 33 minutes and 35 seconds

Book Summary

Shall I Start to Drink? Decide for Yourself confronts the challenging decision of whether to consume alcohol. This pamphlet speaks directly to young adults, guiding them through the maze of societal pressures and moral considerations surrounding alcohol consumption. Fr. Ford doesn't merely present a binary choice; instead, he encourages thoughtful reflection, grounded in Catholic teachings and personal responsibility. The book highlights the virtue of sobriety and the merit of abstinence, not just as a religious obligation but as a free choice towards personal growth and moral integrity.

Key Takeaways

Understanding Sobriety: The book emphasizes sobriety as a virtue, encouraging readers to understand and respect their limits concerning alcohol consumption.

Personal Decision-Making: It highlights the importance of making informed, personal decisions about drinking, based on reason and moral principles rather than societal pressure.

Role of Faith and Reason: Integrates Catholic teaching and the use of reason to provide a moral framework for decision-making about alcohol use.

Importance of Self-Control: The pamphlet underscores the value of self-control and temperance, viewing these as essential components of a virtuous life.

Total Abstinence as a Choice: While not prescribing total abstinence for everyone, the book presents it as a commendable choice, particularly for those seeking to live a life aligned with Christian values and self-discipline.