Daily writing prompt

What’s a promise you made to yourself that you’ve actually kept?

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When I was 28 years old, I made a promise to quit smoking for sure; it felt like a pivotal moment in my life. I must have attempted to quit smoking at least 100 times, and each time was a combination of hope and despair. I would be going okay, feeling strong and determined, but then some stressful event or significant change in my life would occur, and I would find myself resorting to that crutch of smoking once again. That familiar saying echoed in my mind: “Oh, just a few cigarettes and I will be able to stop smoking after the crisis is over.” Yet, I learned the hard way that this thinking is nothing but a bunch of baloney. You get addicted to that nicotine fix almost immediately, and before you know it, you’re back to smoking uncontrollably, trapped in a cycle that feels impossible to break. The fleeting moments of relief that a cigarette provided were quickly overshadowed by guilt and frustration, making me question my willpower and resolve every single time I lit up.

I must say again, stopping smoking was the best thing I have ever done for myself in my life. Not only did I free myself from the grips of that harmful addiction, but I also discovered a newfound sense of vitality that I never thought possible. It took me over a year to get rid of the feeling and urge to light just one cigarette. Then I realized how nasty that habit is and became a no smoking advocate. I speculate kicking that nasty habit gave me 20 or more years of time on this earth, allowing me to engage in activities I love, enjoy meaningful moments with my loved ones, and pursue my passions with greater enthusiasm. The journey wasn’t easy, but the rewards have undeniably transformed my life for the better, leaving me grateful for every smoke-free day.