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Share your quitting journey

Let the Truth Set You FREE!

Thomas3.20.2010
1 9 8

 “I only smoke occasionally.”

“I’ll never do that again.”

“I used to be addicted, but now I can smoke just one cigarette.”

“I’m not smoking again!” [while I reeked of tobacco!]

Lies are a natural and virtually automatic way of life for Nicotine Addicts. I’ve used every single one of these NIco-Lies and many more! As a result of denial and diseased thinking, I lied to my loved ones, to the world to avoid embarrassment, and to myself to keep on smoking. I lied about the big things and the small things – to feel important, to avoid rejection or judgment, to keep up appearances – until I had created a fantasy life that was far more tolerable than my current reality.

The dishonesty, though it hurt the people I cared most about (my Wife, my Sons), served a purpose in my life. If I stopped lying, I’d have to quit smoking and face the shameful pile of hurt I’ve inflicted on the people I love. That’s quite a load to bear! It was much easier to hide my emotions, keep up the double life and continue smoking.

 

But lungs don’t lie! Nor heart, or DNA…. My rude awakening was a diagnosis of COPD! I quit smoking – and lying – 6 Days later!

 

Just as food fuels the body, lies drive Addictive thoughts and behavior. For me, relief from the need to lie is the most attractive aspect of Addiction Recovery. It brings me closer to Self Acceptance. It removes the barrier I had erected between me and my Creator!

Without honesty, there is no sustainable Recovery.  It requires a courageous effort but through rigorous honesty, I reaped a reward that at one time likely seemed utterly impossible: coming to know and love not only myself but others, warts and all. I became a better Thomas than even my fantasy – the Real Me!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ovYPQl93zro

 

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About the Author
63 years old. 20 year smoker. 11 Years FREE! Diagnosed with COPD. Choosing a Quality LIFE! It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. -Galatians 5:1