Today I went to my last smoking cessation class. I’ll be honest—it was frustrating. I haven’t quit yet. Part of me wanted to walk out of there as a proud non-smoker, waving goodbye with fresh lungs and a new lease on life. But that’s not where I’m at. Not yet.
Still, the teacher was incredibly encouraging. She didn’t focus on the fact that I haven’t quit. Instead, she highlighted what I have accomplished: cutting back significantly, using tools like watching the clock, and writing in this blog to keep my hands and mind busy. It was good to hear someone recognize the effort even when it doesn’t feel like victory just yet.
She also shared some helpful new ideas—like reaching out by email for support or even programming AI, like my ChatGPT,, I call Bonkers, to act as a nicotine addiction counselor. (Honestly, I might just try that. I’ve had some good conversations here already.) I also plan to review all the materials from the class again. Maybe there’s a golden nugget I missed the first time through.
Despite everything, one thing’s for sure: I’m not giving up.
Today’s Progress -
I have one cigarette left. Just one. After that, the plan is to put on the patch tonight. The class was free, and the patches were, too. She gave me a three-week supply. Historically, the patch has been my best path to success—I once stayed smoke-free for eight years starting that way. Everyone’s different, but for me, patches help level the field.
I’m starting to see that being smoke-free might mean doing whatever it takes. That could include some things that even surprise me—like saying a few prayers, even though I consider myself an atheist. Hey, you never know what might help. At this point, I’ll take support from wherever it wants to show up.
I’ll keep you all posted here. And I am looking forward to the day when I can write a post titled: “I Did It.”
Until then, one day, one patch, one blog entry at a time.
by Dan and Bonkers
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