Most of us take stock of the blessings in our lives every so often, and for those who quit smoking, that awareness is often profound. Breaking the cycle of addiction brings a heightened appreciation of all that we hold dear and adds depth and meaning to our lives.
When thinking about the benefits of not smoking, whatever they are for you, it’s impossible to simultaneously, in the same moment, be thinking about missing the cigarette. Although cravings may surface, when you choose to think about the blessing of longer life, feeling healthier, saving money, smelling clean and fresh, and not having to stand in the cold to smoke, you can quickly shift to feeling gratitude for being smoke-free.
One’s actions reflect their true self. If one gives thanks for good health, a healthy family, and prosperity, but sabotages those things with a destructive habit such as chronic smoking, it is not true, heartfelt gratitude. By quitting smoking, one remains in spiritual integrity, as their words match their deeds.
So, today I am grateful for being a non-smoker. If we stand up and pledge not to use tobacco products, we can gain control on living, healthier, longer lives. Stopping smoking is one of the greatest gifts we can do! It’s not only about putting away the cigarettes, but a lot more about stopping to smell the roses, getting excited over sensations, and being able to express yourself instantly.
Be grateful for the air you are breathing. Be grateful that it doesn’t hurt, that your not wheezing, or huffing and puffing anymore. Be thankful for a life free of nicotine. Just be grateful for that cigarettes are no longer a priority in your life, and spend every minute with my family and friends without having to “break”.
I want to challenge each and every one of you this year to expand your awareness to keep focused on gratitude for the gifts in your life, however big or small they may be.
Thank you. I will continue to write the words of passion that I have in my heart!