I smoked for at least eight years. For most of that time, I was at the least a pack a day. Usually more. For a while, I was better than three packs a day of Marb Reds. For a bit longer than a year, I rolled my own. No filter. Yum.
Ok, so smoking is bad. We get it. I smoked knowing full well that it's bad for you. And you know what? Fuck it. It can also be good for you. I read once, years ago, that a couple of doctors loved the relaxing effect nicotine had on people, but hated the delivery system. Now, don't bother asking for a link, it was in a paper or magazine, and many years ago.
I don't smoke anymore. I miss the ritual of it, the relaxation of it, the community of it. When I was in college, I had more friends because I was a smoker. It was social. Probably still is. Ten minute break in class? Light 'em up, smoke 'em down. Great time to meet people. You can try and argue that it's possible to meet people without smoking, but look at the differences. Smokers often cluster together. Rarely does this leave people silent. With no impetus to cluster, what driving force is there for nonsmokers to start shooting the shit? Not much, usually.
Did I look cool? Meh, who cares? The only time I really thought smoking looked cool was when watching Good Night And Good Luck. Man, that looked fucking sweet. I had already been smoking for years by the time I saw that. Nowadays, I am nostalgic in a general sense, but don't miss some of the other aspects of it. I smell a bit better these days. I don't have to listen to my parents ***** when I go visit them.
Smoking is a choice, though, and we know it can be bad for you. We're aware, and frankly, we'd like you to shut the fuck up about it. I saw a shirt that I loved (although I've likely quoted it wrong, the general idea is still there):
Telling me smoking is bad for my health is worse than smoking.
If you know a smoker, yes, they know the risks. Don't bother telling them about it. Be helpful and supportive if they're trying to quit. Otherwise, you're a nuisance.
Also, trust me, secondhand smoke, while unpleasant, perhaps, is NOT worse than firsthand. Trust me.