While I’m not a smoker, I have been impacted by it. I lost my father to smoking and the impact it had on his body. I would have given the world if I knew of a way to help him . I missed not getting to know him as a person.
An addiction is a lifelong battle. I wondered what would be the . If it’s anything like working out and staying on an exercise program, the best way is to try, try, and try again. I’m reminded of a quote by Winston Churchill, “Never, never, never give up.” If you fail, try again.
The best way to quit or to keep on an exercise program is support. Considering the devastation of smoking, with repeated counseling and follow up would be the best plan. It may not happen the first time. It may take repeated attempts.
My dad would give up smoking every Lent. Frankly, it was so pleasant to be in a smoke-free home, even if my dad was a bear during those 40 days. I often wondered why he started smoking again after each Lent. Perhaps if he had the tools and the support, he might have given them up.
If you have a loved one who is a smoker, please encourage them to quit. Don’t lose a precious second of the time you can share.
