There is no better feeling than knowing that no matter what I will not smoke. It is also great to be 323 days smoke free and don’t have to smoke, the choice is mine. I am so thankful that I have arrived at this point of my nonsmoking journey. I feel so free from the grips of nicotine. My mind is at peace. A load has been lifted. Thank God I can celebrate this Christmas smoke free. Even if I may occasionally think about it; as someone said. “I would rather think about it than to act upon it”. From this moment I am going to use those thoughts just as a reminder to be on guard to protect my quit.
To those who are just starting this journey, there are some great people here to help. The elders, just to name a few. Nancy and Marilyn would always tell me that quitting is “doable” and it is. Guilia taught me to meet the challenge head on. That I was stronger than any nicotine addiction. No bars holding for every trial I would get stronger if I did not smoke and I did. Dale's I don't do that anymore got me through. Sky Girl, Sheri @dancingthrulife, Sharon (Smorgy)their advice is top notch. Wow look at that! From now on I am going to call them the 3 S’s. My dear Thomas taught me to be patient with my quit, not to fight it but ride the withdrawal like riding on a wave. It was an enjoyable ride. Without him I would not have made it. Storm I miss you. I could on and on and on. I would advise you to take the time to read some of their blogs. It helped me stay smoke free. Listen to their advice. Don’t try to do this on your own. This blog is getting longer than I anticipated (Donna) lol
I have so many others friends, quit buddies (The Great Eight), motivators, encouragers that relayed things about themselves that helped me improve also. Jimmie thanks for always having my back. Eric 1 you are amazing. You have helped me in areas of my life that I never touched. Thank you for your openness in sharing. I have learned so much from you. Puff, thanks for keeping me smiling and smh. Terrie my Sunshine I look forward to seeing you every day. Mike a cheerful good morning EVERYDAY with my coffee. Barbara thanks for your inspiration. Candy girl, continue to "rock" your quit. Donna, Ellen, Deb, your lives are a testimony to those who want to throw in the towel. Newbies read there blogs @ DJ Murray, Elvan, Hamptons and understand what they have been through and still not one puff. If they can anyone can.
Gee I sound like I am giving a speech. I may not have directly mentioned your name but thank you all. To my friends whose paths I have crossed and you are in limbo. NEVER GIVE UP! Keep trying no matter how many times it takes until it sticks like spaghetti. The main thing is to make up in your mind that you are going to learn from your mistakes of relapse and never to return again. NO MATTER WHAT! It is not always easy but “doable”. Get back on track. If you can do 24hrs you can do 48 and then 72 then 3 weeks then one month, 60 days. 90 days, 6 months, 10 months, 1 yr. a lifetime. Let’s get started. Say Yes! NO MATTER WHAT NOPE. Start today. we are here for you.
I don’t have to smoke, the choice is mine.
Merry Christmas Happy Holidays God Bless.
