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Death In The West - The Marlboro Story (Full Documentary)

jillar

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Blog Entries posted by jillar

  1. jillar
    Still winning
    Posted September 29, 2014 · IP 
     
    I have spent a lot of my time over the last 6 months watching quit videos, reading stories, blogs, googling. I have read about nicotine addiction and health implications and self worth.  I would like to think I am a reformed addict. So rewind.....
     
    I want to quit smoking but
     
    -I'm told it's so hard
    -I will feel lousy for months
    -I can't see a world where I can't smoke again
    -Forever is too big
     
    Then I joined a forum and took a sigh of relief. I don't have to contemplate forever, I just have to not smoke today. Phew! That I can do. This is what we/I offer you. Don't over think it. Tell yourself Smoking is not on the table (SNOT)for today. Not One Puff Ever (NOPE) just for today.  Because tomorrow is another day! 
     
    So many quits, (so many of my quits! were/) are lost through chronic over thinking - before the addiction message really has a chance to hit home. We are told "you will know"...really? I never knew, did you? 
     
    This feels like the elusive message. The one we don't talk of but why not?? We are afraid to quit, afraid to fail at the quit and can't contemplate a life where we can't smoke. This feeling doesn't last. Nor should you cosy up with it and spend quality time together as you will just panic yourself. 
     
    The truth is this, forever, at anything!, is far too overwhelming as a starting point and that's really real. So deciding to quit is great, do that! Not smoking today is great, do that! Go to sleep and wake up, not smoking today is great, do that!! Literally take one day at a time. All we have is "now" and tomorrow is not promised to anyone.
     
    Fear is no reason to not try, nor is it a reason to hurtle over the proverbial cliff edge. Baby steps, like you are protecting something very precious and take each day as it comes. Fear kills too many great choices.
     
    Don't smoke today. This day, this hour, this minute. Whatever that takes. We will carry you when it feels hard, for today.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/2878-feel-the-fear-and-do-it-anyway/
     
  2. jillar

    Nothing is more important.

    By jillar,


    General
    Christian99
    Quit Date: 12/11/01
     
    Posted September 6, 2021 
     
    It is certainly possible to quit without substantial (or even any) weight gain, but my experience has been that a common characteristic of many successful quitters is the prioritization of quitting over pretty much everything else.  Nothing is more important for your health.  Nothing.  And nothing is more important for your spirt and self-esteem.  Ask yourself what it will take for you to do WHATEVER it takes.  You asked about withdrawal symptoms at three months.  While some people are not struggling substantially at three months quit, some successful quitters actually are.  I was.  I sure hope that's not the shape your quit takes, but are you willing to remain smoke free if it is?  Because that's how it is for some quitters, and no smoker--especially one in his/her late 30's--can afford to wait.  I had a catastrophic heart attack at age 40 that most certainly would have killed me if I hadn't successfully quit at age 33, and my brother died a miserable death from lung cancer at age 41.  Unusual perhaps and unlucky genes maybe, but quitting smoking is the single most important thing any of us can do to improve our health.  And while I definitely quit for a better life, after watching my brother's final weeks and days on this earth, I've come to realize that I also quit for a better death.  
     
    We all know you can do it.  Stay close.
     
    Christian99
    Nearing 20 Years Quit
     
    Link to original post: (removed)
     
  3. jillar

    My Friend Nick

    By jillar,


    General
    NADA
    Members
     
    Posted October 25, 2017 
     
    When I was thirteen years old this new kid, Nick, moved into my neighborhood.  At first I didn’t like him at all.  In fact, you could even say he made me sick.  But after a few weeks he started to grow on me and before you knew it we were hanging out daily.
     
    Nick seemed like the coolest kid on the planet…so much more mature than my childish peers.  And hanging out with him made me feel cool too.  Before long I found that I couldn’t stand being away from Nick.  Even for an hour.  My other friends were not impressed by Nick in the least.  They avoided me like the plague whenever he was around.
     
    Likewise, I found myself rejecting offers to do things with my friends because I didn’t want to be away from Nick for any extended period of time.  I just got too agitated and anxious.  As the years went by, I lived my life on Nick’s terms.  Whatever he wanted to do we did.  I no longer had any input.
     
    Nick always put me in extremely dangerous situations, but I felt powerless to contradict him.  This twisted relationship went on for decades.  I was allowing Nick to slowly, but inevitably, drag me to the precipice.
     
    One day I woke up hacking and coughing so violently I thought I was going to die.  Nick stood by my side with a blank smirk on his face.  I knew right then and there that he wasn’t going to help me.  He would let me wither away without a second thought.  Only I could help myself.
     
    So, on November 22, 2015 I kicked my friend Nick O. Demon to the curb and vowed never to hang out with him again.  My life, health, relationships and sense of well being have shot through the roof since I dumped that “friend”.  I do not miss him even one tiny bit.  Good riddance!
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/9243-my-friend-nick/
     
  4. jillar

    The Grief Cycle

    By jillar,


    General
    Jenny
    Posted December 26, 2014 · IP  (edited)
     
     
     Quitting is a learning process rather than a single act. The majority of our participants agree that the process can be difficult, especially during the first few weeks. You have to get through a physical and mental recovery when you decide to quit smoking. The physical recovery is the most difficult during the first two to four weeks due to experiencing the “symptoms of recovery.”
    The mental recovery, however, may take several months or longer as you learn to reorganize your lifestyle without smoking. This may be even more difficult to handle than the physical recovery; however, this program is designed to help you with the physical and mental recovery process so you’re in the right place!
    The psychological recovery process is very similar to the grief cycle, how someone feels when a loved one dies. Dr. Elizabeth Kubler-Ross did research on death and dying. She found that anytime we experience a major change in life, we grieve for the old in order to make room for the new. She also found that there are usually five stages to a person’s grieving process. Think about how these stages of grieving relates to quitting for you:
     
    Denial & Isolation
     
    Denial and isolation are the mind’s first way of protecting us from a sudden change or loss. People who lose a friend or family member say they feel numb. This is called a psychological defense mechanism. What this means is that although you know the importance of quitting, you may not want to believe it. The denial phase probably happened before you even found this program.
    Have you ever said any of these statements?
    I know I should quit, but I’m not sure I want to.
    Cigarettes don’t affect my health like they do others. I’m not huffing and puffing.
    I can quit anytime I want to.
    I’m not addicted.
    I’ll switch to a low-tar cigarette.
    Cigarettes haven’t been proven harmful.
    My parents both smoked and they’re fine.
    These are denial statements. What are some other denial statements that perhaps you have used in the past?
     
    Anger
     
    When we begin to accept a loss, we often feel anger. If you perceived comfort from smoking you are likely to feel angry about the change. You may be angry about the loss of your “friend.” You might be angry about many things, or everything.
    Some typical feelings or statements made during this phase include:
    Why me? I’m mad I started, I’m mad I quit. I’m mad cigarettes are harmful. I’m mad it’s so hard. I’m mad that things aren’t going my way.
    You might be angry with me, your Facilitator, and other participants on the Message Boards. You might find yourself reacting angrily to things that normally wouldn’t bother you.
    Your anger may be directed toward family members, friends, nonsmokers or coworkers. In fact, a lot of people avoid quitting because they feel so irritable during the recovery process.
    Remember that anger is part of the process. Don’t try to resist it. Accept it, safely vent it, and take some time to feel it. You may feel angry and testy. You don’t have to have a reason to feel that way, you just do. It will subside. Sometimes naming the feeling lowers the intensity of your anger.
     
    Bargaining
     
    This is the stage where participants feel tempted to postpone the inevitable. You might try to switch brands, smoke only at home or only at work. You might also try to make deals and empty promises. This is a risky phase because a lot of people slip or relapse at this point, so be careful!
    Some typical comments made during the bargaining phase are:
    I think I have the worst licked. If I just have one cigarette, I’ll get right back on track afterward and I won’t do it again.
    I’ll just smoke on vacation.
    I’ll just light your cigarette.
    I’ll quit as long as my weight stays down.
    I’ll try, but I’m not making any promises.
    Do these statements sound familiar? Everyone is tempted to bargain. Realizing that it is a natural part of the process of quitting sometimes helps to move past it. Laugh it off and have a heart-to-heart talk with your inner self. Make a strong commitment to be in control of the cigarette. If you give in to bargaining, the cigarette is once again in control. Say out loud, “Nothing or no one controls me.” Put that statement on a sticky note and put it in a place where you’ll be reminded to think about it and repeat it often.
     
    Depression
     
    When participants acknowledge and accept the loss of their “friend,” the cigarette, it’s natural to experience some sadness. This is especially true when no one else seems to know or understand this loss. People often experience this in one of two ways. They either feel a deep sense of sadness or a deep sense of deprivation.
    Some typical comments during the depression stage are:
    I feel so emotional. I cry all the time.
    I feel so deprived.
    Why can’t I have this one little pleasure?
    Life without cigarettes is awful.
    I feel lonely.
    This is the “ain’t it awful” stage. You may feel like you’ve lost your best friend. Don’t resist this stage or think it’s crazy to mourn the loss of a cigarette. Be as direct with this stage as we suggest with the anger stage. Accept it. Talk about it. Take some time to just feel sad. Then move on and focus on the benefits of what you’re doing.
     
    Acceptance
     
    A healthy person who has suffered a loss eventually accepts its reality and goes on living life. In this stage, you begin to realize that your former smoking lifestyle is over. You are finally resolving your sense of loss or grief. You can get on with living your new found, healthier lifestyle. A new and better life begins.
    Some typical comments during the acceptance phase are:
    I think I’m going to actually be successful. I still don’t like it a lot but I think it will stick.
    I’d still like to smoke but I choose not to.
    I am going to teach myself to like my new nonsmoking lifestyle. I’ll do it gradually and positively.
    I am living a smokefree life.
    I am an ex-smoker!
    The key to moving through the psychological recovery is your attitude toward quitting. Continue to look at these symptoms as part of the process. Move through them with a sense of challenge, expectation and excitement over what lies ahead for you. You will make discoveries about yourself. Reject the feeling that you have given something up. It’s quite the opposite. You gained something: your freedom and self-mastery. This is not an exercise in self-denial, but self-determination. You are giving a precious gift to yourself and to those around you.
     
    ~The American Lung Association
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/3953-the-grief-cycle/
     
  5. jillar

    Are you a Slave to the Nicotine?

    By jillar,


    General
    JackiMac
     
    Posted March 17, 2015 · IP 
     
    Nicotine is a monster that comes along and takes you captive, it entices you in with promises of a sweeter life, it promises to give you stress free moments, make you a more sociable likeable person, you want to be slim and look cool, nicotine says it can do that for you, you can be an it girl a man of the moment because you smoke.  
     
    Errrm hang on a moment  let reality have a second to speak to you, nicotine is a chain that wraps itself around you, it enslaves you with its addictive drugs, it pulls you in with it's lies, see all the stress that you think nicotine can solve, only you have control to deal with your stress, learn deep breathing (oh I forgot you can't because smoking has damaged your lungs).  You think your an it girl, HA, it girls don't smell of smoke or have a face full of wrinkles and smokers lines, Man of the moment yeah whatever the smoking has dulled your senses, you can't run for that ball anymore.  Your not a sociable person, are you really, everyone is looking out at you not wanting to join you but feeling sorry for you because you are a slave to the nicotine.
     
    If someone said to you see that cliff over there jump off it, would you? No I didn't think so, why would you answer No, because you are not stupid, are you, your in control of what you do, you know that if you jump of that cliff, you will probably die.  So if I offer you a cigarette surely your answer should be the same, No thanks, why would you answer No, because your not stupid, you are in control of what you do, if you carry on smoking you will probably die.  
     
    If you are a slave to the Nicotine, its time you broke free of the chains, take back control of your destiny, take back control of your life. Begin a new journey, one that leads to better times.  The journey will test you at times, but isn't that what we call life, and last time I looked life was for living.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/4800-are-you-a-slave-to-the-nicotine/
     
  6. jillar
    Colleen
    Quit Date: 6/2/13
     
    Posted June 13, 2015 
     
    I was scared too.  Thought I had this super addictive personality and all those who had successfully quit before me weren't really addicted to smoking.  Shortly after you quit, you are going to figure it out, but I'll let you in on the secret now...it's a bunch of baloney.  Nobody is more addicted to smoking than anyone else.  It's the monster otherwise known as nicotine playing tricks on you, kick his ass to the curb because once you let go of that illusion everything seems to fall into place.  
     
    Remember sticking your toe in the pool and thinking it's much too cold to swim in?  Do you also remember once you jumped in (or were pushed in) you realized it wasn't that bad at all?  That is exactly what quitting smoking is like.  It's 10 times more easier than you thought it was.  Okay, so it's not always rainbows and unicorns, but it's nowhere as bad as you think it is.  Trust me, this is coming from someone that couldn't go 3 hours without a cigarette.  Or trust my ticker, it doesn't lie 
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/5481-are-you-scared-to-quit-smoking/
     
  7. jillar

    What Does It Take To Stay Quit?

    By jillar,


    General
    Tink
    Quit Date: 22/11/2013
    Posted April 22, 2014 · IP 
     
    The truth is I am still learning 
     
    I have had my triggers and my cravings
     
    my personal triumphs and my low points
     
    some days were a piece of cake and some were a battle of the mind
     
    I have made mistakes and allowed emotions and personal circumstances push me to the brink
     
    At times I have allowed the junkie mind to romance the idea that smoking will take away the situation I am in - in these times I have had to fight so hard my fingers bled, I scratched and clawed my way to hold on to my quit  
     
    The longer down the road I am the more I realized that this is not the case as life rolls on and you really do not need to smoke to get you through a bad day or situation you start to relax and not be so reactive and you can shut down the junkie mind without any blood shed
     
     
    Things I have learned to be true:
     
    Mind is definately over matter
    You do not need to smoke to help with anything a bad day is still a bad day 
    Hold on no matter what - whatever it takes
    We can make it as hard or as easy as we want it to be
    We can take complete control if we want it (in your own way)
    Fear makes things 10 times worse than it actually is or needs to be
     
    With all this learned knowledge I am looking forward to marching onto my 6 months
     
    All the information you need is right here on the board for your own successful quit wether you are 1 day or 5 months - just hold on tight to your quit
     
    Thanks to all who have walked my journey with me thus far and for the new members we are there for you! 
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/875-what-does-it-take-to-stay-quit/
     
     
  8. jillar

    Give it a try

    By jillar,


    General
    SueBeDoo
    Quit Date: 29th september 2013
     
     
    Posted October 24, 2014 · IP 
    I was one of those people that quit smoking more times than i care to remember and i always gave in at the first sign of a crave. 
    But this time when i quit, i got through each crave and do you know what, i felt euphoric for making it, it is the best feeling ever, you have the strongest urge to smoke but you hang tight and do not give in and the high you feel is just amazing. Cant beat a free buzz  :pleasantry:
    when i would wake up the next morning after not giving in i would be on cloud nine all day,Got to the point were i was looking forward to getting a crave because i knew the feeling i would get when the crave went was priceless, no cigarette can give the same feeling.
    I promise you it is fab,
    Give it a try quit now and see how you feel when you get through the really tough ones, you will feel a million times better than if you had gave in and smoked.
    When a crave hits face it head on say come on do your worst, is that the best you can do and try laugh through it.
    You owe it to yourself to give 1oo% to your quit xxxx
    :give_heart:  :dance2:
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/3233-give-it-a-try/
     
  9. jillar

    SHE WAS 16 AND BEAUTIFUL

    By jillar,


    General
    Cristóbal
    Quit Date: 14 October 2012
     
     
    Posted on QSMB Jul 25 2010 by JWG.
     
    She was 17 and thought it was cool
    She was 18 knew she was in control
    She was 19 living in the fast lane
    She was 20 and would quit before hitting 21
    She was 21 and thought new years eve was better
    She was 22 the new job was to much stress right now
    She was 23 and her fiancée smoked anyways
    She was 24 the baby would be fine, what’s a little nicotine
    She was 25 what else is there for a stay at home mom to do
    She was 26 job interviews are just to demanding
    She was 27 in this job you have to be social
    She was 28 her uncle just died but she would be alright
    She was 29 thinking this time Im ready and 30 is my number
    She was 30 maybe just one more year
    She was 31 who can handle a divorce all alone
    She was 32 working two jobs and life’s to hard
    She was 33 and the new boy friend doesn’t mind anyhow
    She was 34 wedding plans are all she could do
    She was 35 his kids are so wild , just need the break time to time
    She was 36 a quit would have to wait , to much on her plate
    She was 37 forty wont be to late
    She was 38 a daughter and two steps sons a mini van and career
    She was 39 one more year and so done
    She was 40 are you crazy and gain weight
    She was 41 and probably couldn’t anyways
    She was 42 and enjoy smoking
    She was 43 but I should try, just for a month
    She was 44 her little girl smoking, and wonders what went wrong
    She was 45 The Doctor said it wasn’t good
    She was never 46
     
     
    In Memory of JWG - Reposted by Cristóbal
    JWG Died of Lung Cancer shortly before his 4 Year Anniversary, 6 weeks after his diagnosis.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/10730-jwg-post-she-was-16-and-beautiful-jul-25-2010/
     
  10. jillar

    Constant Mindgames?

    By jillar,


    General
    ssharonsif
    Posted August 25, 2014 · IP 
     
    I read way back and thoughts it might be useful to those who end up in a relapse, or in fear of giving quitting another crack.
     
    Bear in mind Dr Steve Peters calls the limbic part the 'chimp' and the 'human' is the frontal. Hope this helps in understand why it's not about will power.
     
    All information goes to the chimp first. The process is always the same as you go about your daily routines: in every situation and action, all input goes through your chimp first. The chimp then decides if there is anything to worry about. If there is no concern then the chimp goes to sleep and hands over to the human.
     
    So I personally see now how my craves just stopped, I often say went to sleep because they did.
     
    If the chimp is concerned, then it will hold on to the blood supply in the brain and will make it's own decisions on what is going on. The human and chimp both think in the here and now and both interpret as they happen. The human interprets things a calm and logical manner. The chimp interprets things in an emotional manner.
     
    The chimp and the human can work effectively together. The chimp with its instincts and drives can keep us safe and healthy. It can tell us when to eat and sleep, and warn us of danger and how to deal with it, or when there is something it would like to engage with to fulfil its own desires. ( smoking )
     
    It is the norm for most of us to run on emotion throughout our day and there is nothing wrong with this. Problems arise when the chimp gives us a suggestion that is not appropriate and we then allow it to control us and don't know how to stop the chimp from dominating us.
     
    Why can't we take the power off the chimp and make decisions?
    The simple answer is that the chimp is more powerful and acts more quickly than the human. A real chimpanzee has five times the strength of a human. In the same way, you can think of your emotional inner chimp as having five times your strength. There- fore, you must learn to manage the chimp if you are to be the person that you want to be. A non smoker
     
    It is no use trying to control a chimp with willpower. I call this 'arm- wrestling the chimp'. We all learn at about the age of three that will power in not a very good way to do most things. It only works when the chimp is asleep, indifferent or agrees. When the chimp has a different agenda then willpower goes out of the window. So we must learn different ways to deal with the chimp.
     
     
     
    I can see for myself that both time and patience gave my logical brain (human) the tools it needed to work effectively with my chimp. So obviously my chimp lost the constant here and now need to light up a cigarette, which obviously gave me the much needed peace I cherish. You find your own ways obviously, many use education, some NrT, some just saying NOPE is enough, we are all different.
     
    I just wrote this out as I thought it might prove helpful to those out there who get frustrated with the constant inner mind wars that go on, instead of feeling weak I hope it helps you understand what is actually going on.
     
    The book is The Chimp Paradox, by Dr Steve Peters. Not a stop smoking book, more of a control the inner thoughts book.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/2422-constant-mindgames/
     
  11. jillar

    Tending Your Garden

    By jillar,


    General
    intoxicated yoda  31
     
    Posted yesterday at 07:35 PM 
     
    honestly...even tho i've been quit for a few weeks, the cigs are still in control.  I'm still an abstaining smoker.  Most of my thoughts are dominated by the quit but that's okay.  it has to be this way.  my quit is a garden and right now it's full of weeds so it's going to take all my focus and effort to get all the weeds pulled.  then once all the weeds are pulled it's going to take daily monitoring for new sprouts of weeds so i can dig down and find the roots.  later it will take weekly monitoring for more weed sprouts so i can dig down further and get the rest of the roots.  and then when i've gotten all the roots out and all the weeds are gone and there are only beautiful blooming flowers in my quit garden i still have to be vigilant in monitoring for weeds cause seeds will blow in on the wind from who knows where and they will pop up when and where i least expect them.  but that is life.  the garden, whatever it is be it quitting smoking or playing piano, must be tended.  to do otherwise is to stop living.
     
    Link to original blog entry: Who's in Charge? https://www.quittrain.com/blogs/entry/1050-whos-in-charge/
  12. jillar

    It's your choice

    By jillar,


    General
    On 8/4/2015 at 10:57 AM, Tiffany said:
     
    Read this. Line by line. Think about it. Feel it.
     
     
    Picture yourself a second or two after you stub out that quit-breaking cigarette. The one that you just had to have because the craving was so strong you couldn't hold out any longer, when that voice inside you was saying.. "Go on, life sucks, you may as well smoke a cig.. y'know for your nerves.." or the other one.. "you've got this beat now.. you are in control.. you can have one just now and again.. go on have one for old time's sake.." So you bum a cigarette, and smoke it and in 2 and 1/2 minutes, you stub it out.
    Now what. Your mouth feels like crap. Your lungs are tightening up. You managed to stifle the coughs .. but barely. You began to squint again because the smoke hurt your eyes. and your fingers and clothes smell again. You either want to throw up, grab some mouthwash, take a shower, or have another.. maybe buy a pack.
    But then you realize what you've just done. After all those times when you said you were going to quit, and then when you finally did, and your family and friends were so happy for you - but not exactly over the moon, because after all they've been hopeful before only to see you relapse - all that enthusiasm is now smashed to pieces on the floor. And all the pressure that drove you to grab that cigarette in the first place - it's all still there. Nothing has changed, except now you've added one more problem: you just blew it.
    And then you realize what you've really done. You had invested days, maybe weeks and months, in this quit. You had made a great decision, one of the few things you really and truly felt proud of in your life, and you just blew it. You just blew the quit that you swore to yourself was the last one. You were so positive, so motivated, and encouraged, you were really on top of it, ahead of the game for once, you had taken control of your life and it felt like a whole new beginning.. and you just blew it.
    You look at that stub in the ashtray. The grey ash and the brown edge to the burnt paper, and the tar stain on the end of filter. You remember the thousands of cigarettes you have stubbed out and think about the tar that came into your lungs as smoke. And you think if smoking that one cigarette was worth it. Nothing's better. You feel a little dizzy now as the nicotine hits your body, even a little nauseous - certainly don't feel the pleasure that you remember the adverts and billboards were promoting during your early years as a smoker. In fact it's hard to remember any time when you felt that pleasure.. just another tobacco company lie.. They helped you to become an addict the first time, but when you smoked that cigarette after you quit.. well that was a whole new decision. You made that one all by yourself - there's no pointing fingers now, you know that cigarettes kill, so when you lit that one cigarette, the choice to smoke was all yours - no-one else to blame. And you just blew it.
    It wasn't worth it.. time after time the slippers' and relapsers' lament how they feel like crap, how ashamed they are, how they have lost confidence and hope, how they hate themselves, how much it hurts, how depressed and they cry and hide and cry some more. And now you are one of them.. the quit losers. Lost in the wilderness, not quite a smoker.. yet and not sure you are a quitter, searching for some dignity, some self-respect out of this. All because of that one cigarette. Because you blew it.
    WITH JUST ONE
    One Puff
    One Cigarette
    One Pack
    One Carton.
     
     
    You know what it feels like to fail already. Now feel what it's like to succeed.
     
    Your choice.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/5780-michelledoesntsmoke/
     
  13. jillar
    ChristaC
    Quit Date: June 18, 2013
     
    Posted May 30, 2014 
     
    First of all, congratulations to all of you.
     
    As I'm sitting here reading some of the posts of some of the struggles quitters go through, especially those with fairly recent quits, I remember my own battles in the early days, and I get the chills....
     
    How did I ever get to this point of being wonderfully free from this nasty, deadly addiction? I smoked for over 50 years... I did EVERYTHING with a cigarette in my hand... work, relax, drive, talk on the phone, read a book, drink coffee... when I went shopping, I'd light up as soon as I hit the front door of the store.... when I went out to dinner, I stood outside between the salad and the main course for a 'quick one', and scarfed down my food so that I could run back out and smoke that 'dessert'... when one of the kids had a school concert or something, I was impatient for it to be over because I was craving for a cigarette...
     
    I remember how, when somebody would ask me to go somewhere with them, my first thought was "can I smoke there?", or actually making excuses why I can't go... because it was a 'non-smoking' event... good God, how awful is that?
     
    Besides the obvious health concerns, knowing I'm killing myself, trying to excuse my non-stop cough and throat-clearing (it's allergies, I'm getting a cold, I've got something stuck in my throat etc... ), pitiful, false, trying-to-fool myself and everyone else 'smoke screens' (pun intended) for my oncoming emphysema and/or COPD...
     
    besides all of that (as if that wasn't enough), just the social aspects alone should turn everyone away from nicodemon's siren call. Life is so limiting when you're addicted to cigarettes (or anything, really) that it RULES your behavior all day long, and actually COMMANDS you to live your days a certain way.
     
    As a non smoker, you can do what YOU want, when and where you want. As a smoker, you're at the beck and call of your addiction... you're a prisoner who must follow his jailer's orders.
     
    Plus, my hair smells like coconut shampoo. 😛
     
    Never, ever again. N.O.P.E.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/1489-to-all-of-you-quitters-new-and-not-so-new/
     
  14. jillar

    Lies

    By jillar,


    General
    Nixter
    Quit Date: 6/7/15
     
    Posted June 27, 2015 
     
    So basically what I'm figuring out is that cigarettes and nicotine are big fat liars. For all those years they kept me at their beck and call by making me afraid. I was afraid to quit because I thought I wouldn't be able to have fun without a cig. LIE. I was afraid to quit because I thought it would be too hard. LIE. I was afraid to quit because I thought every day would be like day 1. LIE. I was afraid to quit because I wouldn't be "me" without my smokes. LIE!! I am telling you, I feel more joy at social situations than I ever have!! Why? Because I can concentrate on having fun instead of worrying when I can sneak outside for a cigarette. I physically feel soooo much better already. And I'm also really proud of myself. But I have to be honest and say I'm a little pissed that I was duped for so long. Anyway, I'm so happy to be a non smoker. Thanks for being here for me!
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/5558-lies/
     
  15. jillar

    The Power of Detachment

    By jillar,


    General
    Boo
    Quit Date: March 9, 2016
     
    Posted December 8, 2019 
     
    One of the greatest gifts the process of quitting gave me was the opportunity to practice detachment on a daily basis.  I started thinking about this earlier today after hearing Jocko Willink talk about detachment on a podcast.  In fact, the moment I figured out how to separate myself from whatever emotions and thoughts I was having in the moment was the turning point in my quit.  It was a struggle before I figured it out.  After I figured it out, it has been nothing but smooth sailing.
     
    The cravings didn't magically go away when I turned the corner.  The odd thought about "the good ol' days when I was a smoker" still popped up from time-to-time.  The basic tenets of addiction were still there, I just changed how I reacted.  Instead of surrendering to the chaos and allowing the emotional upheaval to dictate my actions, I just took a step back and observed what was really going on.  Identified my thoughts as nothing more than a temporary feeling born of decades of addiction.
     
    Detaching yourself from the self-defeating thoughts and emotions of addiction allows you to observe what's really going on and make wise decisions.
     
    The cigarette is an inanimate object.
     
    You are not a smoker.  You are someone who used to smoke.
     
    Your thoughts have as much or as little power as you give them.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/13326-the-power-of-detachment/
     
  16. jillar

    The Comfort Zone

    By jillar,


    General
    Tink
    Posted June 6, 2014 · IP 
     
    The Comfort Zone
    By Unknown
    I used to have a comfort zone where I knew I wouldn’t fail.
    The same four walls and busywork were really more like jail.
    I longed so much to do the things I’d never done before,
    But stayed inside my comfort zone and paced the same old floor.
    I said it didn‘t matter that I wasn’t doing much.
    I said I didn’t care for things like commission checks and such.
    I claimed to be so busy with the things inside the zone,
    But deep inside I longed for something special of my own.
    I couldn’t let my life go by just watching others win.
    I held my breath; I stepped outside and let the change begin.
    I took a step and with new strength I’d never felt before,
    I kissed my comfort zone goodbye and closed and locked the door.
    If you’re in a comfort zone, afraid to venture out,
    Remember that all winners were at one time filled with doubt.
    A step or two and words of praise can make your dreams come true.
    Reach for your future with a smile; Success is there for you!
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/48-quit-motivationquotes-picturesfunny-or-not/#elControls_286_menu
     
  17. jillar

    Anyone ever use affirmations?

    By jillar,


    General
    leahcaR
    Posted April 7, 2014 
     
     
    I know a lot of people mention anxiety, nervousness, panic feelings or just not thinking you can do something or will fail at it (smoking)... I know a lot of people have this to say about life in general but also a lot of people use these words when talking about quitting smoking or thinking of quitting smoking.  I know I used to.  ALL the time.  each one of those words I associated to quitting whenever the thought of quitting popped in my mind.  or even thinking I may fail at it.  
     
    We talk ourselves out of so much in life.  So many good things.  not just quitting smoking.  But anything that might be good like opportunities or chances we could/should take but don't because we let negative thinking get in our way.  
     
    I havent really mentioned this to anyone here since I quit because I figured some might find it strange.  But the more I thought about it recently I realized it is not strange or new agey.... we have inner dialogue with ourselves ALL the time.  You don't even realize you do it because you do it so much.  And if you stopped and thought about it you would realize that most of it is negative.  "I can't stop smoking"  "I would fail" "it would be too hard"  "it makes me anxious just thinking about quitting" or even day to day things like "I cant get that report done in time"  "no one likes me"  "I could never succeed at that"  
     
    Think about it and be honest... you say those things all the time and hardly realize it.  You say something enough times to yourself you will believe it.  Constantly reinforcing the negative thinking/talking to yourself and you will believe it.  But no one thinks its strange that we do this. We don't find it strange that we do this because we are so used to it.  But someone says they use positive affirmations and everyone stops and stares at them secretly wondering what voodoo they are up to.  
     
    If it's okay to talk to yourself negatively it shouldn't be weird to talk to yourself positively.  And if we know anything we know the more times we say something to ourselves we start to believe it.  It's something to think about.  
     
    I have started using affirmations during random times in my life since I quit.  From when I feel like I might want a cigarette to other items related to work or peers.  And I have found them to really work.  Calm me down when I am on the brink of anxiety (and I also suffer from anxiety attacks as some others) and I have used them to calm down about the smoking desires when they used to creep up or if I think I might end up in a trigger situation.
     
    Repeating something to myself over and over for about five minutes or however long I feel necessary really helps me and gets me to start believing what I am saying.  At first of course you wont believe it but give it a chance.  After all,  repeatedly telling yourself you are going to fail at quitting makes you believe it doesn't it? So why should this be counted out?
     
    Here are some good ones for not smoking:
     
    I cancel smoking out of my life.
    I am smoke free and craving free from nicotine.
    I love fresh air and abhor cigarettes.
    I love myself more than I love smoking.  
    I honor and respect myself always.
     
    And then here are some for anxiety which we know comes along with those nicotine withdrawals and cravings.. and other situations in life:
     
    I transcend stress of any kind; I live in peace.
    All is well in my world and I am safe.
    I am at peace.  I am calm.  All is well.
    When this is over I will be glad that I did it.
    This may be hard now but it will become easier and easier.
    I let go of all the lies I tell myself. 
    There is a great reason this is unfolding before me.
     
     
    and this states how best to use affirmations and other info:
     
    Affirmations work most effectively when they are recited repeatedly and while giving your full focus to them. Not only should you say the words, but you should also do your best to feel the corresponding FEELING associated with the words. For example, if you say, "I feel so strong and empowered" you should actually take on the feelings of being strong and empowered. This does take practice if you are not used to controlling your emotional state, but it does get easier the more you practice it.
    Constant repetition many times a day is important also, because you are attempting to override existing beliefs in your subconscious mind. A belief is nothing more than a thought you have thought many, many times before, until eventually your subconscious mind takes it as "truth".
    For example, many people believe that smoking calms you down. Physiologically, smoking does not have relaxation benefits but many smokers have convinced themselves that it does. Because they believe this, they create the experience of feeling more relaxed after smoking. To override this belief, it's important to replace it with an opposing belief - like affirming that you feel calm and relaxed already, so there is no need to smoke in order to relax.
     
     
    You can do google searches for different kinds of affirmations.  There are TONS of websites with many listed by category.
     
    I thought this might help someone as it has helped me for quite a few months now to get rid of all the lies Ive told myself or continue to tell myself.  Enjoy.... or skip along elsewhere.  <3 :)
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/357-anyone-ever-use-affirmations/
     
  18. jillar

    Why is it so hard to quit smoking?

    By jillar,


    General
    Nancy
    Quit Date: 07/07/2013
     
    Posted March 25, 2016 
    From the American Cancer Society...
     
    Why is it so hard to quit smoking?
    Mark Twain said, “Quitting smoking is easy. I’ve done it a thousand times.” Maybe you’ve tried to quit, too. Why is quitting and staying quit hard for so many people? The answer is mainly nicotine.
    Nicotine
    Nicotine is a drug found naturally in tobacco, which is as addictive as heroin or cocaine. Over time, a person becomes physically dependent on and emotionally addicted to nicotine. This physical dependence causes unpleasant withdrawal symptoms when you try to quit. The emotional and mental dependence (addiction) make it hard to stay away from nicotine after you quit. Studies have shown that to quit and stay quit, smokers must deal with both the physical and mental dependence.
    How nicotine gets in, where it goes, and how long it stays
    When you inhale smoke, nicotine is carried deep into your lungs. There it’s quickly absorbed into the bloodstream and carried, along with the carbon monoxide and other toxins, to every part of your body. In fact, nicotine inhaled in cigarette smoke reaches the brain faster than drugs that enter the body through a vein (intravenously or IV).
    Nicotine affects many parts of your body, including your heart and blood vessels, your hormones, the way your body uses food (your metabolism), and your brain. Nicotine can be found in breast milk and even in the cervical mucus of female smokers. During pregnancy, nicotine crosses the placenta and has been found in amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord blood of newborn infants.
    Different factors affect how long it takes the body to remove nicotine and its by-products. In most cases, regular smokers will still have nicotine and/or its by-products, such as cotinine, in their bodies for about 3 to 4 days after stopping.
    How nicotine hooks smokers
    Nicotine causes pleasant feelings and distracts the smoker from unpleasant feelings. This makes the smoker want to smoke again. Nicotine also acts as a kind of depressant by interfering with the flow of information between nerve cells. Smokers tend to smoke more cigarettes as the nervous system adapts to nicotine. This, in turn, increases the amount of nicotine in the smoker’s blood.
    Over time, the smoker develops a tolerance to nicotine. Tolerance means that it takes more nicotine to get the same effect that the smoker used to get from smaller amounts. This leads to an increase in smoking. At some point, the smoker reaches a certain nicotine level and then keeps smoking to keep the level of nicotine within a comfortable range.
    When a person finishes a cigarette, the nicotine level in the body starts to drop, going lower and lower. The pleasant feelings wear off, and the smoker notices wanting a smoke. If smoking is postponed, the smoker may start to feel irritated and edgy. Usually it doesn’t reach the point of serious withdrawal symptoms, but the smoker gets more uncomfortable over time. When the person smokes a cigarette, the unpleasant feelings fade, and the cycle continues.
    Nicotine withdrawal symptoms can lead quitters back to smoking
    When smokers try to cut back or quit, the lack of nicotine leads to withdrawal symptoms. Withdrawal is both physical and mental. Physically, the body reacts to the absence of nicotine. Mentally, the smoker is faced with giving up a habit, which calls for a major change in behavior. Emotionally, the smoker may feel like they’ve lost their best friend. All of these factors must be addressed for the quitting process to work.
    Those who have smoked regularly for a few weeks or longer will have withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop using tobacco or greatly reduce the amount they smoke. Symptoms usually start within a few hours of the last cigarette and peak about 2 to 3 days later when most of the nicotine and its by-products are out of the body. Withdrawal symptoms can last for a few days to up to several weeks. They will get better every day that you stay smoke-free.
    Withdrawal symptoms can include any of the following:
    Dizziness (which may last 1 to 2 days after quitting)
    Depression
    Feelings of frustration, impatience, and anger
    Anxiety
    Irritability
    Sleep disturbances, including having trouble falling asleep and staying asleep, and having bad dreams or even nightmares
    Trouble concentrating
    Restlessness or boredom
    Headaches
    Tiredness
    Increased appetite
    Weight gain
    Constipation and gas
    Cough, dry mouth, sore throat, and nasal drip
    Chest tightness
    Slower heart rate
    These symptoms can make the smoker start smoking again to boost blood levels of nicotine until the symptoms go away. (For information on coping with withdrawal, see the section called “Dealing with smoking withdrawal.”)
    Other substances in cigarette smoke
    There is some evidence that other chemicals in cigarette smoke may act with nicotine to make it harder to quit smoking. The effects of smoking on monoamine oxidase (a brain chemical) is still being studied. For some people, withdrawing from smoking causes more severe mood problems, which can result in worse cravings and more trouble staying quit.
    Smoking affects other medicines
    Smoking also makes your body get rid of some drugs faster than usual. When you quit smoking, it may change the levels of these drugs. Though it’s not truly withdrawal, this change can cause problems and add to the discomfort of quitting. Ask your doctor if any medicines you take need to be checked or changed after you quit.
    Last Medical Review: 02/06/2014
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/6836-why-is-it-so-hard-to-quit-smoking/
     
  19. jillar

    The One Year Commitment

    By jillar,


    General
    Soberjulie
    Posted April 7, 2014 · IP  (edited)
     
     
    I come here for support....to vent....to encourage....to listen and speak truths.
    I will continue to come here for my first year, because whoever I made this pledge to originally kinda knows what he's talking about.....when people slip away from their supportive community, they often slip away from their commitment to NOPE. 
    I read something the other day that made me ask myself....."Well Julie, why do you come here?"
    I see, and am experiencing something very similar to recovery from other addictions that I have and have sought treatment for.
    There is proven power in a community of positive support.
     
    I don't come here to 'save' people......not because I don't want to save people, but because I cant save people.
    As it is with any diagnoses, I can help you treat your cancer, but I cannot save you from your cancer.
    I can help you treat your addiction.....but I cannot save you from your addiction.
     
    But the strange thing is.....and if it weren't so amazing, it would be ridiculous,
    When I help you,
    I save myself
    from my own addiction.
     
    Im making the commitment.....Im committing to one year here.
     
    (I really feel as if Im just re-committing. Ive already made a pledge to stay with a supportive non-smoking community for one year. In 12 step circles, many of us have something called a 'home group': a place where we commit ourselves to showing up as much for ourselves as for others. Ive done nothing more than change my 'home group'. My committment stands. It just stands here)
     

     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/318-the-one-year-commitment/
     
  20. jillar
    Cristóbal
    Quit Date: 14 October 2012
     
    Posted May 19, 2016 · 
     
    When our quits are young, we must learn and then practice in a conscious manner, to disconnect and keep separate our quits from all life events.
     
    We learn to always keep our quits sacred, protected, and never influenced by any life event that may happen.
     
    This dynamic we may call The Proper Sequence, and it is powered by your commitment to Never.Take.Another.Puff. (NTAP).

    It does not matter what may happen on any day in your life......as long as you maintain in a conscious manner The Proper Sequence dynamic as a primary element of your quit, you will not smoke.

    The Proper Sequence is:


    YOU --> QUIT --> LIFE.

    •NOT•:

    YOU --> LIFE --> QUIT.


    By maintaining this simple sequence dynamic in your quit, you will not ever have your quit influenced by life events.
     
    If you always keep your quit close to you, protecting it with your commitment to Never.Take.Another.Puff (NTAP), you will never, *EVER*, smoke again.
     
    We build our quits, and train our minds, our emotions, and our spirits to live as non-smokers in beautiful freedom by continuing to commit to NTAP. as our way of not smoking, and our way of slowly putting this awful addiction to sleep.

    Consciously adding The Proper Sequence dynamic to your new non-smoker identity will strengthen your quit even more.
     
     
    Cristóbal
     
    (Posted on Day 364)
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/7018-your-quit-your-life-the-proper-sequence/
     
  21. jillar

    Traveling as a smoker

    By jillar,


    General
    Jenny
    Quit Date: 05/24/2012
     
    Posted May 7, 2017 
     
    I went on a trip to Texas recently for work and brought a co-worker with me.  She smokes.  We agreed to meet at a local mall and then drive together to the airport.  When I got there to pick her up she was pacing back and forth outside the vehicle, in the rain, getting those last puffs in.  At the airport she tried to find a time to smoke but things moved too quickly and she was not able to before we boarded.  Everywhere we went the next few days were HELL for her because she couldn't smoke.  
     
    Meanwhile, I had a great time!  It still amazes me when I travel how easy it is now.  No stressing to find a place to smoke.  No withdrawl...just a relaxing time.
     
     
    Life after quitting is so much better.  For anyone on the fence or in the early days of your quit keep going!  It gets so much easier.  Don't live your life desperately searching for the smoking area.  There's nothing for you there.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/8458-traveling-as-a-smoker/
     
  22. jillar

    I forgot to think about smoking! Yay!

    By jillar,


    General
    PixelSketch
    Members
    Quit Date: March 19, 2017
     
    Posted April 10, 2017 
     
    OK, this is the first time this has happened since I quit!! Even those moments where I wasn't craving one, it was constantly on my mind in some way, even if it was just "I'm not smoking, I'm not smoking..."
     
    Today, wrapping up a work project into the wee hours of the night, I suddenly realized that I hadn't thought about smoking for ages!  So, there's hope!! It's exhausting to always have it on your mind, even when you don't want one. For me, this is the first sign that a future without thinking of smoking really, truly does exist. Looking forward to more and more moments like this.
     
    Off to bed, but doing a happy dance. Had to share - to those wondering if you're ever not going to think about it - yeah, the time will come. Hang in there!!  :yes:  :good3:
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/8314-i-forgot-to-think-about-smoking-yay/
     
  23. jillar

    Keep It - Your Quit, Your Shield

    By jillar,


    General
    Bassman
    Posted September 17, 2014 · IP 
     
    Some people cannot go through something without having to put something on it or tag something to it.  That makes it justified for what is going on.
     
     
     
      When I started smoking there was no one week, 2 week, monthly celebration for the start, no woopie I have been smoking for 6 months......But during many yearly anniversaries from the start of my smoking, I  wished I had never started....But there is no name for that situation, just a wish that I had the power to fulfill but didn't for 35 years.
     
     
     
      When I finally did the needful and quit, I was filled with excitement and extreme joy that I finally quit.  I fulfilled something I wished for for 35 years....now that is something to be proud of.....In fact so proud and happy, I let that emotion over cloud the craves, urges, or trigger, then and now.  
     
     
     
       I wanted and needed to stop so I did and with that being my goal, I never saw a need to question any part of my quit.  Yes the urges, temptations,  craves, addiction, taste in the mouth, subconscious smoking habits, all were and sometimes still here.  I have to live with it because I myself alone brought the addiction to me..... But I don't have to accept it, I only need to protect and stay vigilant to my quit.....I just have to make sure I don't get a cigarette and smoke it......ane the more I do that, the more stronger my quit becomes.
     
     
     
      Point here is to continue to accept your quit from your decision to stop smoking.  Just don't smoke, ............ because you no longer smoke for your own reasons.  Don't worry about how you are going through it because you will come out the winner....you will come surfing out of that perfect 15 foot wave hole free and clear with joy in your soul.  You are accomplishing what you set out to do and that accomplishment is filled with health, money, and self confidence,  not to mention what it means to family, friends and loved ones.
     
     
     
    Enjoy your quit, embrace it, let your quit be your shield ..............Bassman
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/2712-keep-it-your-quit-your-shield/
     
  24. jillar

    KNOCK KNOCK

    By jillar,


    General
    Cristóbal
    Quit Date: 14 October 2012
     
     
    Posted on QSMB Dec 17 2013 by JWG
     
    When my son was young he would walk to the end of the drive to wait for the school bus. I would stand at the bay window off the side nook of our home where I could look down the drive and watch until he safely got on board.  Sounding like a good father this may be. But in actuality I found I enjoyed the heat off the glass and watching the life outdoors from the birds to the ever changing leaves of the seasons. Here I would smoke my morning cigarette. It wasn’t long I had moved a small bench near the window so I could sit and be a bit more comfortable And take in a bit more of my surroundings. I bought a nice brass ashtry on a stand to place next to my bench and would bring in my newspaper into the nook ., By the following year I came to realize  It wasn’t much of a bench or that comfortable, So I decided to have some work done to the room and to the window I had a much better built in bench placed into the wall almost making me like a cat sitting on a lagre comfy ledge over looking the world , searching for his pray, like that fat robin I watch in the mornings searching out a nice fat worm.
     
    On day while peering down the drive , watching , waiting for my son to board the bus, I noticed a shadowy figure standing off to his side. I would not say it a ghost or man, just an odd shadowy figure,, quite perplex this left me , almost to the point of quizzy, what was this figure ,, what was it doing out there ?
     
    For the next few mornings to weeks perhaps months I would watch with an unsettling intent ,, always wondering , what was this figure,  a shadow from a limb or tree ?
    In the afternoons if I were to walk to the end of the drive never was there any evidence of such a figure, questioning my son , was always the same “ your crazy” he would
    Say. But No I was not crazy ,, I saw what I saw and what I saw was a real as you and me.
     
    As the years past , I began to come to terms with the  figure at the end of the drive , I knew well whatever it was meant my son no harm. But still each day I found myself looking out the window.. Years would pass , no longer did my son need a protective eye to watch him get on to the bus. But still each morning I went to the window for my morning coffee , cigarette and newspaper. Always peering
    down the drive slowly it was becoming obvious the figure had turned its sights to me,, no longer was I the watcher , but now the watchy. And with this the hair on the back of my neck stood up,
     
    Schools years would come and go, Jason would be moving in the fall to attend collage  and I found my self remolding more and more I had moved my study down into nook , moved a side wall expanding the nook itself allowing me more room, I worked from home and really found with these accommodations I was just fine, plus saving me time from going up and down the stairs so much.
     At once this shadowy figure a bit of amusement now each day an every growingly obsession, a looming haunt always in the back of my mind. Never was it different from one day to the next , but over the years it was easy to see this was a man in grim black suit complete with over coat and hat.
    For years I asked visitors that would stop by , “what they thought of the man at the end of my drive ?” always to be givng the same response “ Still on that kick” so in time I stoped asking , I came to except it was only myself that could see him. But as a say , what I saw , I saw , and he was real. As real as you or I.
     
     
    By the second year Jason had moved out , my work had slowed down. To save some money on heating and other bills I pretty much moved myself completely into the nook , which now was more like a tiny apt. I had a small bed and fridge a microwave, my coffee pot . Sure I would still make it threw the maze the rest of the down stairs had become to make it into the kitchen if need be. But for the most part I was fine in my cubby.
     
    With less work these days I found myself spending  more on my bench smoking my cigarettes watching my mystery man in black. With the difference being now slowly I could see he was approaching the house. Not each day could I notice, but slowly, ever so slowly he was making his way down the drive.
     
    Until the morning I woke to look out the window and there he stood straight across the drive. I knew then , right then.. Who had come calling ! His eyes were hallow as if none were there at all. His face a slunken gray like dead skin draped across a skelton . No longer was his black suit of fine linen now a grab  more like canvas with a hood from the top of his head dragging past his feet. No more then I peered into his sullun face, he turned abruptly proceeding down the drive. I knew with out a doubt . His next stop was the front door.
     
    Dizzzy, breathless, my knees week ,, I stammered back, the back of my knees hit a recliner I had set up.
     
    nto which I fell. Sitting there now lost reality was gone ,, where was I ? what was going on ? what had I done ? I reached for a cigarette to comfort me , to guide me, to give me answers.
     
    And there I sat and smoked . Looking down on to my cracked and dried skin, stained yellow from years of tar and nicotine. I saw all the answers I was looking for.
     
    With my own two hands I molded my own death , from once only a shadowy figure at the end of my drive to a creature from the underworld. I forged my own end, one cigarette at a time. One day after another ,one year after another, all the while knowing death was monitoring my every move. Why did I not stop? I could have quit ,millions do it every day. Why did I not run from this house? was I blind, a fool ? Or  an addict appeasing  myself,  to avoid the discomforts of nicotine withdrawal…
     
    *rasp*rasp*rasp*
     
    The cold steal of his scythe rattles the front glass…
     
     
    In Memory of JWG - Reposted by Cristóbal
    JWG Died of Lung Cancer shortly before his 4 Year Anniversary, 6 weeks after his diagnosis.
     
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/10729-jwg-post-knock-knock-dec-17-2013/
     
  25. jillar

    We can not be casual smokers

    By jillar,


    General
    Jonny5
    Quit Date: 2011-12-21
     
    Posted April 14, 2014 
     
    If you could, you already would be.  There are some who can really genuinely take it or leave it.  I read once that 90% of nicotine users become addicted. the others don't persue a smoking career so to speak, or smoke occasionally with no withdrawals.
     
    That is not you.
     
    You are a nicotine addict, that is why you are reading this, and that is why you can't just have the occasional smoke.
     
    we are all or nothing, The law of addiction states that reintroduction of the addictive substance to the addict will reawaken the addiction and start the withdrawal process over again.
     
    it can not be any other way for us.
    Link to original post: https://www.quittrain.com/topic/637-we-can-not-be-casual-smokers/
     

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QuitTrain®, a quit smoking support community, was created by former smokers who have a deep desire to help people quit smoking and to help keep those quits intact.  This place should be a safe haven to escape the daily grind and focus on protecting our quits.  We don't believe that there is a "one size fits all" approach when it comes to quitting smoking.  Each of us has our own unique set of circumstances which contributes to how we go about quitting and more importantly, how we keep our quits.

 

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