Overcoming Addiction and Navigating Relationships

Introduction to Overcoming Smoking

I often see advertisements about quitting smoking. I want to share my success story in overcoming this dirty habit in the hope that it helps someone else. I smoked four packs of unfiltered cigarettes every day. At age 37, I knew I wanted to quit. I set a goal of quitting in a month and that was the day I went cold turkey into action. I’m almost 86 now and have had no desire to smoke since that day. People, be brave. Be strong and follow. I hope this helps someone else live long.

The Great American Smokeout

For decades, the American Cancer Society has sponsored an event called “The Great American Smokeout.” The theory behind this is that if someone can quit smoking for one day, he or she can build on it for two days, a week, a month, etc. Many former smokers have quit smoking this way. This year the smokeout will take place on Thursday, November 20th. I wish everyone who decides to try it good luck and health.

Navigating Complex Relationships

I have a close friend who I think needs help. She is a loving and caring mother, wife, teacher and friend. Since her husband has health problems, she took early retirement to look after him at home. She recently confided in me that they haven’t been intimate in almost 20 years. Two years ago she began a romantic relationship with a man she knew. She says that both of them lack physical affection in their marriage and that they have come together to fill that void.

Remaining Supportive

How do I remain a supportive friend when I philosophically disagree with what she does? She knows I don’t approve of her actions, and we haven’t discussed the topic since she told me. It is possible to be a supportive friend without being judgmental about her predicament, and that’s exactly what I recommend you do. If you want her not to discuss her affair with you, tell her so.

The Importance of Common Courtesy

I want to try to understand something. What happened to common courtesy? Since when is it acceptable to ignore a friend’s call, text, or email? And to all the people out there who cancel plans with their friends (and you know who you are) just because you “got a better deal,” that’s rude! Honestly, if either of these things happens more than once, I think it’s time to reconsider being around these people and plan accordingly.