I smoked my first cigarette at age 15. People always say to me "I didn't know you smoked. You don't look like a smoker". I love that comment. I always have to ask, "So, what does a smoker look like"? No one likes to answer that question because they know they are stereotyping. Although, I do feel like a junkie that has hit their ultimate bottom. After numerous failed attempts to quit I am finally fed up with tobacco. I consider myself to be knowledgeable when it comes to tobacco prevention education, etc. After all I graduated from a reputable University with a degree in Health Education. I currently work as a Prevention Specialist. It is my job to help others learn about the dangers of smoking and second hand smoke. Nothing makes you feel like a bigger hypocrite then smoking cigarettes on the way to a conference where you know all you're going to talk about is how horrible smoking is for you.
I've made myself many false promises in the past, "when I graduate from college I'll quit", or "if I get this job I'll quit". Every time my addiction over powered the promise I had made to my self. I finally realize that there is never a "good" time to quit, there is always going to be some obstacle in my life that will give me an excuse to keep smoking. This has to be a personal choice that I am ready to make for myself and I believe that time is finally right after 12 years!!! Goodbye smelly clothing, ashes in my car, & gross taste in my mouth.