By the way, we "veterans" know what you guys are going through because we have been there in your shoes. Today marks day 643 of my quit. You may look at that number and seriously wonder how you will ever get that far. If that is your question, then here is my answer ... one day at a time.
As cliche as that may sound, it is the truth. No matter how hard you fight, no matter how many cravings you battle through, no matter how many headaches, fits of dip rage or periods of constipation you endure, you can only do this one day at a time. Certainly it would be nice to do all the hard work of quitting at the beginning and get it over with so that afterwards you could just coast.
It doesn't work that way. Each and every day you get to make a choice. Will you, or will you not, return to the open arms of tobacco. Will you, or will you not, deny the self indulgent side of you that is ready to throw in the towel. Will you, or will you not, say "no tobacco today", mean it and stick to it no matter what circumstances you encounter today.
This site is a community of individuals quitting smokeless tobacco. Each and every day that we all succeed in keeping the "no tobacco today" promise is a victory. So when you need help, ask, and watch as the wagons begin to circle.
You may want to wander in to some of the other, older quit groups. In some of these groups, on any given day, you may see very little dialogue specifically related to smokeless tobacco cessation. I can assure you this is not because we have been "cured". However, it is because we are no longer completely consumed by our quits. We have reached a point where learning a new recipe for brisket, discussing the merits of a certain vacation destination or arguing about the officiating during yesterday's game is also worth talking about. We still keep our guards up for sure, but sometimes we just have fun, joke around and enjoy the freedom we have acquired. I mention this to give you hope. Yes, quitting still requires a one day at a time commitment, but each day gets better and staying quit becomes easier.
I know some of you are having a really difficult time. I've walked in your shoes. Keep in mind that the pain you are currently experiencing is the currency with which you will purchase your freedom.
The path to freedom is a well traveled one. Many, many ex-tobacco users have secured their freedom within these walls. They acquired the tools necessary to battle their addiction and many have chronicled their stories here ...
The Hall of Fame SpeechesI think you will find encouragement in these words. They found the help they needed right here where you are. Remember that every step away from tobacco is one step closer to freedom. So stay strong and stay quit!!
