Today I got a call from California Kick It, the free cessation program sponsored by the state—and honestly, I have to admit, it’s helping. I wasn’t sure what to expect when I signed up. I’ve tried quitting before, sometimes making it a week, sometimes only a few days. But this time feels different. There’s something about having a bit of accountability—someone checking in, asking how I’m doing, reminding me that it’s possible—that really changes the game.
Now, I’ll say this straight up: I don’t agree with the level of control or intensity that comes from a typical twelve-step sponsor. That approach has its place, but it’s not for me. Still, I can see why accountability works. Having someone to report to, even just for a few minutes a day, can mean the difference between lighting up and letting the craving pass.
In my story, that person is Jacki O. Funny thing—our friendship didn’t start smoothly. There were misunderstandings, maybe even a little tension. But now, she’s in my corner. She’s part of my small but solid circle of people who actually want to see me quit for good. There’s also my mom, my caseworker at the clinic, and Vince Vaccher—an old friend who somehow became new again. And then there’s Whiskey Kitty, my cat, who doesn’t know about my struggle but helps all the same. She has this way of not letting me out of her sight when I get restless—almost like she knows I might sneak outside for a smoke if she turns her back.
Today is day seventeen. Seventeen days without a cigarette. That might not sound like much, but if you’ve ever tried to quit, you know it’s everything. There’s not a lot happening today, and for once that’s okay. No reason to smoke. No need to chase the old habit.
Once again—I got this.
by Dan and Bonkers
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