Well, it has been almost 2 weeks since I celebrated my 1 year milestone. With one year there is a good feeling of achievement which required hard work and determination. I have to admit at times it was tense and I had to give my quit my all in all With God’s help I made it. I am not looking back but we should NEF (never ever forget) the beginning of our journey. My focus has now become beyond the quit. Hopefully I can explain what I mean by beyond.
Beyond the quit for me is knowing that I will never ever put another cigarette to my lips. NOPE not one puff ever. Beyond is never to have smoking as an option. SINAO. Beyond is still doing whatever is necessary so I will never get caught in the nicotine addiction trap again. Beyond the quit is liking who I am without cigarettes in my life and being proud of myself whether anyone else recognizes it or not. Quitting has opened my eyes and I see myself, some people, places and things in a different perspective. For me beyond is helping and giving back with knowledge, kindness, understanding, patience, and humor so others can also have a successful journey to freedom from nicotine.
Beyond the quit is taking time to enjoy what a beautiful world we live in. Life is very short and we have to embrace every moment Beyond is continuing to love myself more each day and taking better care of me. Beyond is recognizing there are other areas in my life that need attention and I can’t be here as much as usual. As Thomas would say “ There are better things to do than sucking and blowing smoke from burning leaves wrapped in paper and drenched with chemicals”. Kinda sorta anyway; for some reason I just had to add that in there.
I am thankful for each day that I wake and no longer have to think about smoking. Hallelujah! That too has taken time but thank God I am here. I could never have made it without the support of this group. I will always stay close and connected as much as possible while I continue on the journey beyond my quit. When I have something to share I will. God bless you all.
