Post by judyb on Jul 12, 2004 11:38:22 GMT -5
A while back, a co-worker and myself were standing outside having our usual smoke break. We,
ironically, were discussing quitting smoking, and the many products and services available to help in
doing so. A man walked up, over heard us, and joined in the conversation. He said, "I was a smoker
for 30 years. I haven't had a cigarette in 2 years now."
We inquired how he achieved this, and stuck to it....what wonderful mystery cure did he use?
He continued, "I tried the patch. I tried nicotine gum, hypnosis, smokers anonymous, everything and
anything, but I finally found the 'cure'".
Astounded, we were anxiously awaiting his next words, which were sure to carry our salvation...
"I quit smoking when I stopped putting cigarettes in my mouth." Simplistic, but actually, the only
truth. Use what support systems you may, but if you put a cigarette in your mouth, you are still a
smoker.
This has held true for me. I tried it all. What made me quit, and not miss them, was *wanting* to
quit, not trying to quit. The point? As "Stan" said in an earlier re: post,
using "stop systems" will not work if you *want* to quit. It's simply mind over craving, and taking
control of yourself. Only you can put a cigarette in your mouth. Just don't do it. It's the only way to
break free. Freedom is sweet.
just48 - kent - 5/01