Addictions

This morning I was listening to a talk radio show on my drive in to work. They were talking about cigarettes and various methods people use to get off of them. One caller used a drug called Chantix which she said was a lifesaver and helped her quit smoking after 30 years. A second caller also used Chantix but fell victim to terrible side effects once she got off the drug. She experienced a deep depression and suicidal thoughts – she said she felt like the drug took a year of her life away from her. They all went on to try to explain why they were addicted to cigarettes and why it was so hard to quit.


I’ve never been into cigarettes. I have only tried it once and I thought it was disgusting. I also grew up in a tiny house and my Mom smoked inside. I never realized how bad that could really be until I started dating and the guy asked me why I smelled of cigarettes so badly. How mortifying! That traumatized me in a way and I think it made the thought of smoking even more gross to me.

So you’re wondering why I am talking about cigarettes, right? Well, they say it is one of the worst addictions one could possibly face. I can totally relate because I am a recovering food addict. Sounds silly, right? It actually isn’t. When people talk about their various addictions or I watch Intervention (love that show) I just feel like I’ve walked a mile in those people’s shoes. Food may not be as deadly as cigarettes, alcohol, or heroin, but it IS deadly if it is not consumed properly. Heart disease caused by poor eating habits and a lack of fitness is one of the leading causes of death in our country. And let me tell you, when you struggle with poor eating habits your whole life, getting on track and sticking to healthy eating is just as much of a struggle as quitting drugs, alcohol, or cigarettes. I know it sounds dramatic and many people will not be able to relate – but it is a reality. My reality and the reality for many people I know. So, as I was listening to the radio show I did think of how lucky I am to have access to supportive friends and family, a gym, and healthy food. I am also thankful that I was able to finally dig deep in myself, get the willpower I needed, formulate a plan and stick to it – but most of all I am thankful that I didn’t need to rely on a drug with terrible side effects to get me on the right track.

One last thought – last night we took Jordan to the pool so we could get some exercise and have some fun. Now, that I’ve become hyper aware of the importance of healthy habits, I noticed that half of the kids at the pool were really overweight. I talk about this out of love and concern – never judgment upon anyone. After all, who am I to judge anyone about this? I am still new to the journey and have a LONG way to go. It did strike a chord with me and as the big kids splashed by us, my heart ached because I can only imagine the life of pain and ridicule they are and will continue to endure. It just made me all the more determined to instill healthy habits into my son now so that he will never have to face those challenges. Life will throw him many curveballs and I’d rather take the steps now to prevent one like that from occurring. The key is – it IS preventable. It just takes time, thought, effort, and consistency.

Until next time my friends….