The Art of a Savage Reply to Naysayers about Smoking and Drinking
When faced with unsolicited and baseless remarks about your choice not to smoke or indulge in alcohol, it can be tempting to lash out. However, a well-crafted response can address the underlying immaturity of the person making the comments while also highlighting your own personal code of conduct.
Why Use a Savage Reply?
It’s wise to recognize that individuals who comment on lifestyle choices such as smoking and drinking often lack the self-awareness to understand that they have no say in how you live your life. When faced with these remarks, it's important to respect your own choices without engaging in unwarranted arguments. Instead, you can guide them towards self-reflection with a well-delivered response.
Effective Retorts and Their Benefits
To provide a measured response that might actually make them reconsider their stance, consider these options:
Option 1: A Health-related Rebuttal
Let them know that you’ve tried smoking, but your body categorically rejected it. Additionally, maintaining control over your actions is crucial for your well-being. Drinking can be portrayed as a way of losing control, especially when it involves individuals you don't care about. Adding a touch of truth and non-truth can make for a compelling reply."I tried smoking, but my lungs said no thanks. As for drinking, I choose not to because I don't enjoy the next-day effects of overindulgence, and I prefer to have control over my actions."
Furthermore, mention that you might be on medication for a condition such as bipolar disorder, which makes alcohol particularly harmful. This can add a layer of seriousness to your reply.
"I'm on medication for bipolar disorder, so alcohol can have some really negative effects on me."
Such a response balances truth and fiction, ensuring the person takes it seriously without escalating the situation.
Option 2: A Maturity-based Rebuttal
Explain that people don't get a say in how you choose to live your life, and it’s not your duty to tell them what to do, nor is it theirs to dictate your lifestyle. Emphasize your right to make your own choices and how you value your own well-being."I don’t make comments about your decisions. I think people get a vote as to whether they smoke or drink, but when it comes to me, it's none of your business. I believe in self-responsibility and respect."
Directly addressing the immaturity of the person can also be an effective method:"When you want to boss me around about my choices, you should probably look in a mirror and check your own maturity first."
A nuanced and balanced approach helps to maintain your dignity and communicates your stance clearly.
Highlighting the Benefits of Your Choices
Moreover, you can turn the conversation into a positive one by highlighting the benefits of your choices. For instance, explain how you can enjoy life without dependence on substances and how your pursuit of healthier habits can lead to enriching experiences."I breastfed and haven’t been using alcohol, so I feel good about the decisions I make. I use the money I save to buy a new truck, not waste it on vices."
This response not only reinforces your stance but also demonstrates practical benefits of your lifestyle choices."Emphysemic drunk and stupid is no way to go through life, son. I’m not going to drag you down with me."
Paired with your achievements, such as building a new truck, this statement can be seen as strong validation of your choices.
Additional Strategies
Emphasize your affiliation with religious or ethical communities, such as the Mormon faith, as a final resort. This can serve as a clear signal for them to respect your choices or face potential confrontations."I’m Mormon. Get lost or I’ll have the local missionaries visiting your house every evening, and did I mention that we swap lists with the Jehovah’s Witnesses?"
Lastly, consider the long-term impact of their words. Remind them that their continued criticism might be the only memories you have of them if they persist."During the years to come, I’ll try to think of you every once in a while when I drive by where your memorial used to be or the local cancer hospice."
This statement might make them think twice before commenting in the future.
Conclusion
By using these strategies, you can effectively respond to those who make fun of you for not drinking or smoking without resorting to personal attacks. Remember, the goal is to maintain your dignity and remind the other person of their own responsibilities.