500 days... to put that into perspective, that is 12,000 hours, 720,000 minutes, 43,200,000 seconds. I remember barely being able to make it through a work meeting without a Kodiak. It's actually comical to me now when I think about it.
During the last 500 days, I've turned 40, gained 40 lbs, had a son, lost the 40 lbs and ran my first marathon in over 18 months. It feels good to be back. I never did a HOF speech, but I will at some point. I guess I didn't feel like I had really earned it at day 100 to be honest. I feel closer to it now having fought this strong not only against nicotine, but also against the effects/changes/realizations I've had because of my quit. I'm a better man today. Not only because I don't chew anymore, but also because I've been able to confront my deficiencies with a clear head and make adjustments. Nicotine (or any addiction really) does a good job of teaching one avoidance.
Despite the number, whether it's days/hours/minutes/seconds, I always remind myself that I'm one bad decision away from posting a day 1. That's a reality and always will be. I think I've missed one day posting roll out of 500. I can't even remember why I missed it honestly. I won't miss again. I find the resistance of the fresh arrivals to post daily so vexing. So, if there are any of you fresh into the quit reading this right now, pay special attention. You don't understand how powerful this simple step is. Beyond the promise to the group, it sets the tone for the day. If you post first thing, then your quit is your priority. It is the key element in the battle, no question. If you ask any caver/retread where they failed, I guarantee they'll talk about how they stopped posting roll/being involved.
Quitting isn't easy, but it is simple.
