Kick the Habit - Smoking Quiting Healing 

Humor Your Way Out of your Habit

My tale is about my adventure of quitting after I had been a smoker of cigarettes for eight years. Starting when I was 18 years old, and looking like I was still 14, smoking gave me a way to look a little more grown up. A few commented on my new found hobby, at least the non-smokers. The smokers never did comment, probably because they didn't feel good about their own habit.

I continued smoking for several years. At one point I met someone and found myself married. I still smoked, but he didn't. He was tolerant of my habit, but that wasn't really enough to let this habit slide. I decided it was time to quit.

I'm not one to give up, whether it's a project or a habit. I tend to be a little bit of a drama queen as well, so I knew this was not going to be the easiest of projects. I really did enjoy smoking, even if it meant standing out in a cold rainy doorway just to have my smoke.

It was time to quit. I decided that the pack in my hand would be my last. One by one the smokes came from the pack, and one by one the countdown continued. I reached that final smoke. Now was the test, could I manage to get by without a cigarette?

I had to work that day, and my craving, or just the habit, was strong. It's funny that one of my co-workers decided to quit at the same time. At least I could say that misery had company. I did not enjoy the feeling, no longer having a smoke, and being a drama queen I played it up. Out came the melodrama! This wasn't just complaining or whining, that wouldn't have funny at all. No, I played it like a pro - fully expecting an Oscar for this performance!

I never have had another cigarette. That was 21 years ago. Humor, or the art of making fun of myself, helped me to step out of the character, or out of the story. The habit was only a habit, not a necessity. The pattern changed because I didn't resist, nor did I compromise. It's easy to Humor your Way Out of Your Habit.

In & Around Randolph Township

FRIDAY, Sept. 17 Looking for fun, exercise and socializing? Come to a free “Friendhship Dance” at 8 p.m. at the Ironia Elementary School. Attendees will learn the basics of square dancing from a live caller. The school is on Rte. 513. Free refreshments. Casual dress. Couples and singles welcome. Sponsored by the Reelers Square Dance Club. Call (908)-832-5313 for more information.

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