When someone quits, I feel like a witness. I was supportive and provided information, guidance, validation and encouragement. I walked beside them as they changed from smoker to non-smoker. I feel proud of them, and honored to have been part of the process, but I don’t fool myself into believing that I made them change.
Their mindset plays the biggest part. Timing plays a part. Their support system plays a part. And yes, I am in there somewhere.
When someone continues to smoke, despite wanting to quit, I feel like I failed them. I wonder what I could have done differently that might have made a difference. What did I not see? What button did I not push? What path did I not shine a light on? What tool did I leave unused? What could I have done better?
It is frustrating to witness the slow demise of the fabulous programs that were implemented by the Master Settlement Agreement. Our comprehensive program, as well as the programs in other states, gets smaller and more narrowly focused every year. Some states’ programs have disappeared altogether!
As we struggle to do our best with the resources we have, the tobacco industry changes brilliantly with the times. The only way to win is to stop the demand for their product. That is our job. That is my job, one smoker at a time.
When the tobacco industry wins, they see dollar signs. When I lose someone to them, I see a heart and a spirit and a dream. When someone continues to smoke, in spite of wanting to quit, I feel the loss. This is the price of being a witness.
– Delaware County, PA. September 2012