That’s how I started the last blog I wrote here eighteen months ago. I’m not sure how clearly I remember it anymore, but it’s good to see so many of the wonderful people, who supported me to end my addiction then, are still around. I do remember how difficult it was for me for those first three weeks or so, but after two years the things that stand out the most are how much just a few kind words of support helped me get through those tough cravings and this great feeling of accomplishment. Kind words from people I didn't know, but I had a connection with, a shared challenge with. And I remember how much supporting others, with a few kind words on their blogs helped me feel there was a real purpose in ending my addiction. I had something to contribute. I carry that feeling accomplishment with me to this day. That feeling that I can overcome truly difficult challenges with the same, or similar, strategies I learned here. I may not always choose to use those strategies, but I know what I’m capable of. That’s thing isn’t it? We live in the moment. We choose, this moment when the cravings are bad, not to smoke. This is from that last blog I wrote eighteen months ago. It feels just as true, and real and new today. “It’s commitment and determination that gets us through those first days, that first week, the first month. For me, I had to devote a month of my life to it. And change my life and habits, in any way I could think of, to beat my addiction. We reach out and ask for support when we need it, and give it when we can. And we live in the moment, in the craving we’re having right now, and doing what we can to get beyond each craving. They never last. IT WILL NOT FREAKIN’ BEAT ME!!! NOT TODAY!!! Because if it beats me today, I know I start at day 1 again. Just like that. Best to everyone.” Best to everyone.
