Hi Everyone

I hope that everyone is doing well this Lenten season.
I have a question to raise regarding peer pressure. I live and work in China with 7 foreign teachers. One will leave in 2 weeks time. Traditionally everyone goes out for dinner and gets very drunk and just have a big party to celebrate their leaving. I have been out a couple of times with them but don’t make it a habit because I am unable to drink a lot of alcohol.
The girl who is leaving has become a close friend since I arrived. BUT her leaving “bash” is during Lent AND during my Daniel Fast. I feel like I should go but on the other hand a large part of me is saying that I shouldn’t.
They go out every Sunday night and always invite me. When I decline they always ask why. I have been in that frame of mind before. I used to smoke and drink copious amounts of alcohol and get so drunk I didn’t even know what my name was. Surprisingly, no one then asked me why I was doing that. Since I have stopped and also stopped going out with people who do get drunk (because let’s face it, it isn’t fun!) everyone has asked me why.
I feel comfortable at work but I feel a lot of pressure and judgement on a Sunday night and at other staff functions.
Does anyone have any advice for me?

Have a blessed day.

Kindest Regards
Emmylou