Posted by Storm Chaser 46
on 1/1/2009, 7:44 pm, in reply to "Interesting situation"
65.29.119.82
I have been following this thread and the comments to Kris. For the most part the comments have been well thought out and generally well intentioned. The whole concept of being a closet smoker is a sad commentary on our society. For years we have been bombarded with this study and that study and the whole public relations blitz against smoking tobacco. I think smokers, as a group, have born the blunt of these attacks and quietly accepted their propaganda to the point of cowering in fear of offending someone, paying taxes out the nose, risking loss of job, paying fines if you happen to be smoking in the wrong area.
Despite all the crap, there still seems to be 20 to 30% percent of the population who enjoy the experience of smoking and are willing to put up with the stigma of being a smoker and say yes on some survey. There must also be another significant percentage who would never admit to being a smoker.
Politically speaking, that is a significant number of people. There are many other groups that carry enough political clout to have there interests promoted. If we as smokers would just grow a spine and make make our voice heard perhaps we could protect ourselves from this drum beat to treat smokers as stupid morons.
If you are a closet smoker you need to evaluate the risk of some people knowing you are a smoker. The great majority will have no problem with you being a smoker. Other smokers would certainly understand your choice to enjoy cigarette smoke. After that, the range of opinion could very greatly. Those that might have a problem with your choice would have to be evaluated as to whether or not they would have any ability to limit your freedom. (Financial,Job, etc.).
Based on an honest assessment you should be able to decide when and where you smoke. If you enjoy smoking you should be able to smoke where you want to. Other people don't have a right to not be offended. You are still the same person. Does it really matter if you are a smoker. If it really matters that much, that person has control of your life. You have to decide if you can live with that.
Sorry for being so long winded. I need a smoke!
Storm!
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