I think the thing I like best about smoking is the way it keeps holier-than-thou self-appointed messiahs at a peaceful, comfortable distance.

I've had perfect strangers walk all the way across the park just to insult and preach at me - while I'm sitting there by myself, harming no one, minding my own business, enjoying a break!

I've discovered that all I have to do to get rid of them is practice the art of silence while lighting up another one. Blowing big smoke rings around their faces works VERY well too, if they can't take the hint fast enough. ANd some of them just can't.

I agree with MT - bite me!

If people don't like the way I taste, they certainly don't have to eat me.

If people don't like the way I smell, they can stay away from me too. I don't miss'em in the least. I avoid quite a few people myself, because I can't stand the way they usually smell - be it alcohol or garlic or those godawful cheap perfumes or patchouli oils. I don't insult them, accuse them of all the crimes of humanity or insist they start smelling the way I'd prefer, either.

I just keep my distance. Simple. I figure my personal preferences are my problem, not theirs.

I don't fill up anyone's space (or my own) with smoke (or any other offensive odour), out of respect and common sense. All I ask in return is that people don't fill up mine with unsolicited "advice", meddling and hatred.

daylia