The Word of Wisdom is a wonderful guideline for the health and safety of the members of the church. Often people think that it is only teenagers or new members that are tempted to disobey the Word of Wisdom or who might find themselves in a situation when it is difficult to obey it. In my experience as an adult I have been in more situations where I had to stand up for my beliefs then when I was growing up. This may be because I grew up in Utah and I now live outside of Utah or it may be that my friends in high school (many of whom were not LDS) knew that I wasn’t interested in breaking the Word of Wisdom.
As an adult I have been to work functions where the company paid the bar tab. My first reaction was shock, since we were actually at a meeting and on the clock. My next was surprise as I watched my coworkers put back some serious alcohol. I know I grew up so sheltered, but I am grateful for it. It was nice that although I was offered alcohol everyone was respectful of my choice to abstain.
Another problem I have run into since I live in the South is the sweet tea. I have been to several functions when the only beverage offered was sweet tea. The first time this happened I was surprised. I thought that offering water in addition to other beverages was customary. It means a simple trip to the kitchen or a drinking fountain to find a drink, but again not a big deal.
My biggest surprise as an adult is the defensive attitude that many other adults have when they learn that I do not drink alcohol, coffee or tea or that I do not smoke. They seem to be fine with the fact that I choose to abstain from these items, but they always feel the need to justify their behavior. I have never judged someone for his or her habits along these lines. If they choose not to believe the same way I do, that is fine.
As I have seen the effects of alcohol, tobacco and other poor lifestyle choices, I am truly grateful for the blessings of the Word of Wisdom. It helps me to live a healthier life. It also frees me from the negative path of addiction and abuse. Why are you grateful for the Word of Wisdom?
Related Articles:
Remembering the Word of Wisdom During the Holidays
The Spirit of the Word of Wisdom
Blessings from Keeping the Word Wisdom