The fastest way to self-destruction is through excessive substance abuse. I was a living testimony to this.
At the age of 22 l had almost everything that my heart desired. But alcohol abuse almost led me to sleep under bridges because I constantly failed to pay my rent on time. This was not because l didn’t have the money. At the time l was studying towards a Bachelor of Commerce in Marketing. I would bunk classes and not hand in my assignments on time. As a result I failed my second semester.
I asked God to give me a second chance and he did. I wanted a way out of the darkness. I couldn’t do anything without drinking beer first. I had become an addict and I could finally see it. I was also aggressive especially if I hadn’t had a drink.
Don’t get me wrong, there’s nothing wrong with drinking alcohol if it’s done in moderation.
Many families are broken apart and relationships crumble because of alcohol abuse. Some people lose their businesses or jobs because they are hung over every Monday.
I remember when I was still at school and our teacher had organised what we thought would be our year end function.
We were driven into a building with high walls. To our surprise, we were taken to a rehabilitation centre. On arrival, we were met by a guy who looked frail, with yellow teeth and some missing. You could tell that he wasn’t old but he certainly looked it.
The guy was once a pilot, but the only thing that he had to show for it were old photographs of himself standing next to an aeroplane.
I wondered if the alcohol and substance abuse mistakes were worth forfeiting his illustrious and sought after career. Many great talents have disappeared into oblivion and careers flushed down the drain because of drug and alcohol abuse.
Never seek solace in alcohol! Seek help if you are addicted.
McDivett Khumbulanii Tshehla,Halfway House
Anyone who still does not believe that alcohol abuse leads to self-destruction is foolish. The dangers and results of booze bring nothing but pain. This letter wins R200.– Editor
