The Editor’s Blog: From Addiction to Liberation, My Journey of Quitting Tobacco on No Tobacco Day
Inspiring Minds, Shaping Words: The Editor’s Blog
HIGHLIGHTERS
- Reflections on No Tobacco Day: A Veteran Journalist’s Story
- Discovering Freedom: Embracing a Tobacco-Free Lifestyle
- Unveiling the Illusions: Debunking Myths about Quitting Tobacco
- Finding Determination to Break the Chains of Addiction
My blog in Hindi: https://akhilujala.blogspot.com/2017/03/blog-post_87.html
thenewscaffee.com, May31, 2023
Hi, I am Akhilesh Mahajan, a veteran journalist. Welcome to my blog, where I share stories, insights, and experiences that have shaped my journey in the world of journalism. Today, I want to take a moment to reflect on a personal milestone that holds great significance in my life – my journey of quitting tobacco.
As we observe “No Tobacco Day” on May 30, it seems fitting to share my story of breaking free from the clutches of addiction and embracing a tobacco-free lifestyle. It has been 11 remarkable years since I took my last puff of tobacco, and the transformation I have experienced is nothing short of incredible. Breaking free from the chains of addiction is not an easy feat, especially when it comes to smoking. I vividly recall the first puff I took at an early age, unaware of the poisonous path I was embarking on. However, after two decades, I found the determination to liberate myself from the clutches of this harmful habit……….
The Illusion of Difficulty:
Many active smokers believe that quitting smoking is an arduous task. They wonder how they can live without the comfort of a cigarette during leisure time or in times of stress. But let me tell you, this is merely an illusion. With unwavering determination, one can break free from the poison and experience the true beauty of life and the benefits of a healthy body. I stand here today, having spent 11 years without tobacco, and I know there are many others who have embarked on a similar path.
A Miracle in My Life:
2012: Eleven years ago, while working in Solan’s bureau as the in charge of Amar Ujala, leaving cigarettes behind was nothing short of a miracle. I used to consume 12-15 cigarettes daily, which not only took a toll on my health but also drained my finances. It was during this time that my daughter Keya, a young observer, began noticing the adverse effects of smoking. One night, she questioned the truthfulness of the anti-smoking advertisements she saw on TV, expressing her concern for my well-being. It was a wake-up call that resonated deeply within me.
A Turning Point:
That night, as I pondered the consequences of my addiction, I realized I was inviting death into my life. The fear of leaving my loved ones behind overwhelmed me, and I made a firm decision to quit smoking. I didn’t want to be a statistic, succumbing to the health hazards associated with tobacco. The next morning, I woke up feeling unwell, with high blood pressure and numbness in my body. It was a harsh reminder of the damage I was causing myself. Seeking medical help, I underwent tests that revealed alarming lipid levels, reinforcing the need for a change.
The Journey Begins:
Determined to live a healthier and smoke-free life, I embarked on my journey of transformation. I set a goal to be drug-free within six months and to serve as a positive role model for my daughter, showing her the strength to overcome addiction. It wasn’t easy, as cravings for cigarettes often surfaced, but I persisted. One day, after ordering a cigarette, I reached my destination but couldn’t bring myself to inhale. That day marked the beginning of my 15-month journey towards a tobacco-free life.
Conclusion:
Today, as we observe “No Tobacco Day,” I urge everyone who is struggling with addiction to find the strength within themselves to break free. It may seem challenging, but with determination and the support of loved ones, it is possible to reclaim your life from the clutches of tobacco. Let my journey be a reminder that the path to freedom is worth every effort. Embrace a healthier, smoke-free future and witness the miracles it can bring to your life.
