It seems some people don't know who their enemies are. John, another symptom is the classic persecution complex that appears alongside Alcoholism. Those who would help you, remember, are maybe not the best qualified to do so. The GUEST who suggested that you seek out likeminded people in a likeminded place has a vital point.
Anybody who drinks - ANYBODY who even has 1 pint every 10 years is NOT qualified. Why?
Because they haven't left it behind them yet, and if I read your post right, you want to.
Don't take advice from drinkers, and remember, you also have to lighten up on yourself. And humor is important.
And for the rest of you morose people. Go and mix yourselves a Martini, and let on that everything is OK.