Celebrating 45 years Clean and Sober

As you may or may not know I spend a good deal of time responding to power outages when I am on call. ( every third week of my life at this point)
I often run into customers who have been out for some time and have been making the best of a bad situation as they see it by imbibing on some adult beverages.
Often on arriving at these scenes I am invited to "have a beer, we won't tell the boss!"
I used to just respond that I don't drink, or I'm on the clock, or It goes against my religious beliefs.
These responses are generally met with "Oh, you can have one just this time!" or "Come on it's hot out! relax and have a cold one", or "Just one won't hurt."

Some time back instead of my usual response I took a different tack, I said "Thanks but I've been sober for 45 years now."
The reaction from people who are drinkers and already 3 sheets to the wind was hilarious to me. They said things like, "Wow, you go man!" "That is awesome, great will power!" "That is really commendable!" even, "I need to quit myself."
I have used this one several times now and not once has anyone even questioned my 45 years. They just always seem to admire my sobriety tenure.
Funny how people who might have a drinking problem admire those who have overcome the addiction and don't try to entice one to have a drink after learning this.

So yes, that's me working on 46 years being clean and sober.