A Poem About Quitting Smoking (Quitter Musings)

A Poem About Quitting Smoking (Quitter Musings) February 08, 2018 More in Addiction Coping and Recovery Personal Stories Methods and Support Overcoming Addiction Alcohol Use Addictive Behaviors Drug Use Nicotine Use For most ex-smokers, smoking cessation brings about a change in our perspective and the relationship we had with smoking. For  Smoking Cessation forum member Angela,  this change of heart is poignantly described in the poem she wrote when she celebrated 6 months smoke-free. The blinders are off and the smokescreen has lifted. Congratulations Angela, and thanks for sharing. When I Think of a Cigarette © Angela Moten When I think of a cigarette, I think of the seven thousand chemicalsthat would rush into my mouth andburn their way into my once healthy lungs.I think about that nasty taste, that nastyring of polluted air I would create in thespace around my body. I think of thelooks of disgust given by those close by.I think of those who politely steppedaway from me, and those who not sopolitely stepped away. When I think of a cigarette, I think of the forty seven yearsI spent enslaved to its beck and call.I think of the lies I told myself to ensureits hold on me. How I convinced myselfthat its treacherous act was fulfilling someneed, some longing that mysteriouslynever went away. I think of the twentytimes each day I held the delusionthat it was making me feel better,and thought I was sane in the process. When I think of a cigarette, I think of the lengths I would go toto get one - Late night solitary walksto liquor stores in dangerous neighborhoods,taking money from the children’s piggy banks,writing checks on an account with no funds.I think of how I convinced myself I was normaland not a “real” junkie. How I lied to myselfconstantly. I shudder at the thought. But thingsare better now. I am free. I looked the demonin his face, and saw him for the liar that he is. When I think of a cigarette, I no longer lust its poisonous pinion,my senses have returned (and improved).I smile at the recognition that I am a winner.My sanity has returned. I am strong. Ihave garnered the lessons this addiction offered.I have unveiled the truth â€" I am neithervictim nor fool. In the wake of a oncedestructive force, I stand victorious -captain at the helm â€" punch my fists up in the air.Rejoice in my new found freedom. As active smokers, most of us didnt realize (or tried to avoid seeing) just how destructive tobacco is on all aspects of our lives.  Once we quit however, there is nothing more satisfying that the empowerment that comes with long-term smoking cessation. Harmful Chemicals Abound in Cigarettes and Cigarette Smoke The ex-smoker stories below offer additional perspective on how it feels to be 6 months smoke-free. Six Months Smoke-Free - Simons Story If youre still smoking, use the resources below as a jumping off point.   Your Quit Smoking Toolbox Learn what you need to know to quit smoking for good.  Its well worth the work it takes to achieve.