carylene
I thought about your post quite a bit today...And you are correct, one cannot avoid cigarettes...They exist and we exist, that is a state of being that will not change. Avoidance, therefore, is only part of the process of becoming smoke free. It is without a doubt a strong component of the ultimate solution, but like so much of what we do, as we change our lives, it is only one of many tools.
The fact that you were able to turn away from the temptation is fantastic, it indicates a much more subltle altering of the relationship that we all have with smoking. As we travel this rather tentative and sometimes out right maddening road toward ultimate freedom, a subtle shift occurs deep within ourselves. It begins as a little perceived awakening of our own personal power and strengths. Once we feel it, we begin to build on it and tend to it as one would a small child. The key is in recognizing this change, seizing the opportunity and in the end putting the brakes on the addiction.
In the end, nicotine cannot change, it is what it is. However, we as living, breathing, self creating engines do have the ability to change and grow. Half of the battle is recognizing this, the other half is realizing when cahnge takes place and then building on it with all of our strength. Looks to me like you are on the right road...Stay well, there are much better days to come...
nonic
[B]My Milage:[/B]
[B]My Quit Date: [/B]12/25/2006
[B]Smoke-Free Days:[/B] 206
[B]Cigarettes Not Smoked:[/B] 6,180
[B]Amount Saved:[/B] $1,442.00
[B]Life Gained:[/B]
[B]Days:[/B] 37 [B]Hrs:[/B] 14 [B]Mins:[/B] 2 [B]Seconds:[/B] 27