With the support of a dear, anonymous friend, I’ve begun charting my journey to quit smoking—again—and reclaim my life. It’s not my first attempt, but I’m determined to make this one stick. Here are some of the thoughts I’ve had along the way:
On Smoking and Rehab:
“If I had a rehab, I wouldn’t allow smoking. It’s as bad as most drugs in my opinion. Teens vaping are becoming addicted and getting aggressive. It’s sad.”
Honestly, I couldn’t agree more. The thought of teenagers getting hooked on vaping hits hard—it's like a new generation walking straight into the same old trap. It feels just as destructive as any other addiction. And while I’ve spent years slowly puffing away my life, I know deep down it has to stop. Enough is enough. Time to reclaim myself.
A Shift in My Mindset:
This is going to be kind of exciting. I think I can do it this time. Finally, I’ve found a way to make this friendship of mine work for both of us—not just me, dragging along my habits. I’m tired of sitting around, killing myself one puff at a time. That is depressing.
The Role of Exercise:
"Exercise! The key to wellness! That’s the one thing I’ve done consistently, and it always keeps my mood steady."
Exercise has been a savior. It’s the one thing that makes me feel like I’m moving forward, even when the cravings pull me back. That steady heartbeat, that sense of control—it’s the first step toward winning this fight.
The Patch and Accountability:
I put the patch back on. The plan is to gradually lower the dosage as the days go by. We had a budgeting class this morning, and I realized I need help with more than just smoking—there’s so much to figure out.
I’ve been having nightmares lately, which doesn’t help. But I don’t want to take time away from those who don’t have much of it to spend on me. I just need a little attention, a little guidance. Maybe when I get out, we can catch up, and I can explain to your boyfriend and son that I’m turning to you, not for anything other than friendship. No other motive, just the need for a healthy friend compared to the environment I’m in.
Holding Myself Accountable:
So, the patch is on, and they’ll lower it soon. I thought of sneaking off, lighting up in secret, but I didn’t. Holding myself accountable to someone—someone like you—really helps. The real challenge will be when I get out, but knowing that you’ll be there, watching out for me, helps keep me grounded.
Of course, we could list all the pros and cons of smoking until we’re blue in the face, but addiction doesn’t always follow logic. The best part is, I’ll reap the benefits as they come. My free gym membership awaits when I get out!
So, there’s my update for now. As always, I’m taking it one day at a time and hoping for the best. Thank you for your support, and hey—enjoy your day and work hardly!
I’ll keep you posted on the highs, the lows, and everything in between. The battle isn’t over yet, but with a friend like you, I feel like I’ve got a fighting chance.
by Dan and Bonkers
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