My initiation into the world of smoking transpired at the tender age of 17, a phase marked by curiosity, peer pressure, and the desire to integrate into a distinct artistic group. In the absence of friends and a longing to belong somewhere, I succumbed to the allure of cigarettes, believing that adopting the smoking habit would render me a mysterious loner worthy of curiosity and acceptance. Little did I realize that this misguided behavior would magnetize individuals who, in essence, did not value life as much, while the virtuous ones sought companionship among those practicing clean living.
As I immersed myself in the culture of the wrong crowd, my attempts to please them and emulate their misguided actions led me down a path of addiction. Being with them felt like a refuge, but this sanctuary came at the expense of neglecting my studies, work, and the responsibilities of being a good daughter. Nights were spent on the streets or at others’ homes, engaged in activities that, at the time, I perceived as an integral part of life and friendship.
The turning point arrived when the repercussions of my choices soured every aspect of my life, nearly resulting in my withdrawal from school. Awakening to the grim reality, I resolved to distance myself from the toxic influence and return to my educational pursuits. However, even in my reversion to a mysterious loner, the vices of smoking and drinking persisted, intensifying in frequency, especially during solitary moments. Working abroad exacerbated my struggles, amplifying feelings of loneliness and depression, which, in turn, fueled an escalation in my smoking and drinking habits.
It took me 15 years to break free from the shackles of smoking and drinking. Now, I rarely indulge, reserving such moments for recreation, as the repulsive taste and smell no longer hold any allure.
The Reasons for Quitting Smoking (and Drinking)
The decision to quit smoking and drinking stemmed from a multifaceted realization:
1. The Unpleasant Smell and Taste:
The repulsive smell and taste associated with smoking and drinking played a pivotal role in my decision to quit. Over time, the noxious odor of cigarettes and the lingering taste of alcohol became increasingly unappealing. The sensory discomfort became a constant reminder of the detrimental effects these habits had on my well-being.
2. The Unnecessary Financial Strain:
Another significant factor contributing to my decision was the unnecessary financial burden imposed by smoking and drinking. Both habits proved to be expensive indulgences that gradually drained my resources. The realization that a substantial portion of my income was being allocated to these vices prompted a reevaluation of priorities and a recognition of the financial toll they were exacting.
3. A Pervasive Sense of Self-Worthlessness:
Smoking and drinking became intertwined with a deep-seated sense of self-worthlessness. The habits perpetuated a cycle of destructive behavior, eroding my self-esteem and reinforcing negative self-perceptions. Recognizing the correlation between these habits and a diminished sense of self-worth became a compelling motive to break free from their grip.
4. A Lack of Purpose and Goal:
Engaging in smoking and drinking created a void in terms of purpose and goal-setting in my life. The time and energy spent on these habits detracted from pursuing meaningful objectives and hindered personal and professional growth. This realization prompted a desire to reclaim control over my life, setting tangible goals and fostering a sense of purpose beyond the temporary satisfaction derived from smoking and drinking.
5. The Detrimental Impact on Family Relationships:
Perhaps the most profound realization was the adverse impact of smoking and drinking on my relationships, particularly within my family. These habits strained familial bonds, leading to misunderstandings, conflicts, and a gradual deterioration of trust. The recognition that my actions were causing harm to those I cared about deeply underscored the urgency of making a change for the sake of preserving and strengthening these essential relationships.
The decision to quit smoking and drinking emerged from a comprehensive understanding of the physical, financial, emotional, and interpersonal toll these habits were exacting. The multifaceted nature of this realization served as a powerful catalyst for breaking free from the grip of addiction and pursuing a healthier, more purposeful life.
Quitting smoking proved to be a challenging endeavor, marked by numerous attempts and relapses. The breakthrough came when I grew weary of the futile struggle – tired of the guilt associated with purchasing cigarettes, the embarrassment of being intoxicated, and the financial losses incurred. In a moment of self-reflection, I decided to cease the perpetual effort to quit, acknowledging the omnipresence of cigarettes and alcohol. This seemingly paradoxical approach proved effective for me, though its twisted logic may not resonate universally.
Reflecting on the past, it’s evident that during my struggle, therapeutic interventions and alternatives like vaping were not prevalent. The evolution of technology and communication, through television and the internet, has ushered in a new era. Many now seek to quit smoking through vaping, a method designed to gently ease the transition away from cigarettes.
Vaping, touted as a less harmful alternative to smoking, introduces a fresh set of complexities. Despite claims of its reduced harm, the lack of conclusive evidence renders this assertion unreliable. Vaping is a novel phenomenon, and there is an insufficient body of cases and long-term observations to definitively assess its negative effects. The liquid used in vaping is purportedly a modified version of that found in traditional cigarettes, infused with various flavorings to impart a pleasant aroma and taste.
As I look back on my personal odyssey, I recognize the nuanced landscape of smoking and vaping, shaped by personal struggles, societal changes, and the quest for healthier alternatives.
In the Philippines, this is the kind of typical vape shop you can see on the streets.
You can see different kinds of products which i myself could hardly understand what they are.
This is a vape liquid which costs 250.00 than can be used for probably a week or depending how much you vape.
