Well, I am not one to judge and to say who is or who isn't straight edge. All I can do is offer a few pointers and guidelines. There are really only 3 simple rules to straight edge:
1) Don't smoke
2) Don't drink
3) Don't sleep around
If you follow those basic rules, I would say your straight edge. Now, there is a more intense form of straight edge known as Hardline. Hardline, in my opinion, is a little bit over the edge. And I'm sure I just upset a bunch of straight edge out there, but it's only my opinion, and were all entitled to our opinion right? Hardline is not only abstaining from alcohol, drugs, and pre-marital sex, it also includes being vegan (not consuming or using any product made or derived from an animal. Hardline is also very strong Pro-Life. I am strongly Pro-Life, though just plain straight edge does not have a stand point on the issue.
Anyway, to be straight edge, just don't drink booze, don't smoke dope (or snort coke, or consume any illegal drug that will foul you up...including tobacco), and don't go sleeping around. You keep your body clean, you stay positive, you help others be positive. It all works out for the best.
If you feel maybe just plain straight edge isn't enough for you, and you think Hardline is too much, then find a good inbetween. I abstain from the consumption of caffiene because I view as a drug since it is addictive and can foul you up in large quantities. That is just something I feel is right for me. Remeber, you shouldn't be straight edge because everyone else is doing it, or because it's "cool"...You should be doing it cause it's whats right for you.
© 2000 Gabby9984@juno.com