Dearest Ex Fam,
I am sorry it's been this long since I have written, said Aloha, and shared gratitude. Well, today I checked my time table and it is a miraculous 99 days for me nicotine-free!! I want to write for anyone who may be struggling today or is thinking, "gosh darn, how do I do this?" or "what's the point??" or " I'll quit tomorrow."
Well, I have relearned that living is about being in the here and now and not yesterday or tomorrow. Right now, if you are reading this post with cigarette in hand, you can be present for it, note what is going on in your mind and body as you inhale that poison, and ask a higher power to help you put it out. Nothing is forever. Everything, including my quit, is one breath at a time. Don't let thoughts of "never" smoking again freak you out and prevent you from putting-it-out just for right now. If you can't bear to go without in 7 minutes, OK, light another and go through this excercise again. Bring awareness and attention to the act. Be accountable. Breathe. Yes, pay attention to how you breathe when you are smoking that cig.
Trust that there is another way -- a whole other way of being that awaits you when you stop lighting up and puffing on poison! Some things to do instead of smoke:
- walk
- run!
- talk
- yell
- dance (yes, by yourself, in public, who cares who is or isn't watching)
- CLEAN - this is a good one, do the dishes, mop a floor, organize your mail, your socks!
- CALL someone
- READ lots of these posts
- Ask "god" or your "HP" or however you choose to call your faith for help. If you don't beleive in GOD, or faith, PRETEND!! Ask the universe for help. Angels are around us all the time. Call for them.
OK, all, happy Friday, Happy Spring, and keep on keepin' on - whether you're smoking or not but I am praying that you are not because freedom and clarity are oh so sweet and I am proud and grateful to be able to pass it on just for today.
With lots of love,
Chloe
