I have a patient on my schedule today who is a heavy smoker. Complaint: "Lungs are hurting."

[libdem4life]

48. I started at 11or 12 picking up half smoked cigarettes

from around the old pot belly stove in the General Store (talking the rural South 50s here) Many only smoked half of the cigarette. My girlfriend's family owned the store, so I was there often.

Then off to the barn...to smoke. Now I know that my mother knew because no one smoked in our house. And now I know that nonsmokers can be hyper-aware no matter how my breath mints you take.

I tried to quit a couple of times in college...remember these were the Virginia Slims days, You've come a long way Baby...and indeed I had...now living in Los Angeles. Twice I failed. Each time I failed, I ended up smoking more until I reached a 3 pack a day habit...many did burn down as I was working during the day, but still...no excuse.

In the meantime, had a real estate career 80 hours a week...stress. After work everyone went out for a drink. I didn't drink, so just smoked and drank 7-up...looks like a drink, right? It was always late and everyone totally stressed out.

Third time...was watching and doing the first meditation and yoga class ever on TV...forget his name...80s. (If someone remembers, please let me know. I want to send him my undying gratitude...psychic route, of course.

One day after doing the routine and feeling great, I looked at the cigarettes, because I had vowed to do my meditation and yoga before the coffee and cigarette routine.

And I swear a miracle happened. One morning, with no warning or fanfare, I had my coffee and "Just Said No". That day it was easy. The next few days, however, got tougher. The class was only once a week. So, in order to play myself, I kept a partial pack in my purse. I finally passed the test. Never took a drag off anything from then on. "Just a hit" was what started me back the second time. That's all it took...one hit. I avoided bars for a few years. (we're talking solely tobacco here)

But...I didn't quit total cold turkey...well kind of. Someone had brought some wine over for a dinner, and left it. I didn't drink, but had tasted it and kind of liked it. Thus...every time I wanted a cigarette, I drank a couple of sips of wine. I had the hand-to-mouth action, and there was a little kick in it. It worked. I had quit...never to take a drag again.

Still didn't like wine, but when I moved to Sonoma County, CA...wine country, it wasn't cool NOT to drink wine. But I went along to get along and now, enjoy my wine and still don't smoke,

The final realization is that I can NEVER, EVER no matter how long it's been...35 years...take one drag off a cigarette. I'd be back to 3 packs a day in no time. That's addiction.

Even after that long smoking habit, my lungs seem to be in good condition, my oxygen count 97-98 and no long lasting effect...thank God.

So, every smoker who reads this please know, there is a way and it's different for everyone. You have my highest regard for questioning and searching. Believe you'll find the answer...don't think it will be like anyone else's experience, including mine.