Opinionators
There have been three schools of comments related to my inability to kick my one cigarette a day habit.
The Tough Lovers
Ex-smokers, this group gives no quarter. They insist quitting that cigarette should be my only focus, that I display junkie thinking and excuses, and that I’m still emotionally addicted.
I very much agree with all of these comments except making quitting the single cigarette my only focus. This needs to be done but given the momentous/frightening/overwhelming/time-demanding events in my family right now, I just don’t have that focus at this time. I do know that it’s too easy to put off quitting because of stress or work/family demands. However, there are times of emergency and this is one for me.
Boosters
I get a lot of positive encouragement and recognition from these folks.
I appreciate this group because they recognize how far I’ve come and they acknowledge that I’m not a total failure for smoking a cigarette a day. Nevertheless, the Boosters are unrelenting in urging me to quit–all the way. The support they offer has made a huge difference to me.
Sympathizers
My sympathizers tend to be smokers or ex-smokers who have been supportive throughout my smoking cessation journey. They make all kinds of excuses for me. And they’re a little irritated with the Tough Lovers.
These are very kind, well-meaning people. I get a kick out of them. However, I feel much more strongly than they do about my need to totally kick the habit.
