Quitting Isn't Clinical, It's Spritual. That's Why This Place Works.

[JonesCarpeDiem]

What do I mean by that?

Quitting Is A Life Changing Experience

Those of us who have escaped from the lies of smoking see clearly the control smoking has over people because we were them.

Changing, finding and, accepting yourself is the spiritual experience.

I believe people can be more honest here and form and express their ideas and feelings much better than what you can get from a study or clinical situation.

That's what makes this place valuable. That's what makes this place work.

What have I seen during the 10 years I've been on quit smoking sites?

I've seen the time period most people lose their quits.

I've seen people pull in others balanced on the edge of the cliff.

This doesn't happen in a clinical setting.

It can't with pre-screened questions and so little time.

That's what makes this place work.

Stick Around. Share Your Experience.

Learn And Grow.

Don't Let Go.

[Mandolinrain]

Nice post!

[susan_m]

Lovely - and true.  I wish I could like this over and over again.  

[karenkc1]

I agree Dale! You all got me through the toughest parts.  

[Barbara145]

Hi Dale.  Beautiful (love the colors too) and true!  One time when I was in NML I was ready to throw the towel in. You gave me words of wisdom and called me by my name.  It made it so personal. You are a wonderful, wise elder.  Have a great day.

[elvan]

Beautiful, Dale, absolutely beautiful!

[Giulia]

I agree.  But for those who are unfamiliar with on-line quit sites, as I was when I first quit, clinical quit smoking assistance can certainly be useful.  At least it gets the brain connected to the idea of quitting and has more impact than just "wishful thinking."   

There's a lot to be said about anonymity within an addiction quit setting, such as this on-line community.  And there's even more to be said about communicating and learning from those who have been in the quit trenches, so to speak.  A lot of clinicians have never smoked.  So their at a disadvantage to begin with - for all their knowledge.  The addict's brain is going to be more attracted to, and trust,  those who have "been there, done that."  Because those who DID smoke and have quit actually have experienced the same things.  Those who haven't can only surmise what it actually feels like to quit, emotionally, spiritually and physically.  And the bond that is created is not dissimilar to the bonds created in any situation where similar personal experiences are shared.  

When you open yourself to change, you have to take a good, deep look inside.  And the honesty required for that - when it's shared and acknowledged by others, is a great catalyst.  This community provides the place to do so.  It's also why we all feel like we're a "family."  And it's an amazing family, for which I'm very grateful.

Great post, Dale.

[Strudel]

Wonderful Dale! And - amen! 

[TerrieQuit]

Thanks for this post, Dale! I am grateful to EX and EXer's. You all have helped me save my life, twice. That's why I will stay because this community really works! and I will stay to help others! This is a beautiful post, Dale!  ~Terrie~

[swilson2]

I enjoy reading your post thank you

[JACKIE1-25-15]

Your best.

[SimplySheri]

That's what I get here....inspired  

Thanks, Dale!