Dear Abby
I often come across ads focused on quitting smoking, and I want to share my journey of kicking this habit in hopes it might inspire someone else.
I used to smoke four packs of unfiltered cigarettes daily. At 37, I decided it was time to quit. I aimed to stop after a month and went cold turkey. Now, almost 86 years old, I can honestly say I’ve never wanted to smoke again. I urge anyone in a similar situation to find the strength to see it through. I hope my story helps someone live a bit longer. — Free in West Virginia
Dear Free: Congratulations! It’s fortunate that your heavy smoking hasn’t led to serious health issues. I’m glad the cold turkey approach worked for you. Nowadays, there are various products, like gum and patches, that can help ease nicotine withdrawal.
The American Cancer Society has run the “Great American Smokeout” for decades. The idea is that if you can go one day without smoking, you might be able to extend it to two days, a week, or even longer. Many people have successfully quit this way. This year’s event is on Thursday, November 20th. Wishing everyone the best of luck and good health if you choose to take on this challenge.
Dear Abby: I’m worried about a close friend. She’s a loving mother, wife, teacher, and friend. Due to her husband’s health issues, she retired early to care for him. Recently, she told me they haven’t been intimate for about 20 years.
Two years ago, she began a romantic relationship with someone familiar to her. They both felt a lack of physical love in their marriages, which brought them together. I was shocked and disappointed. Why would she risk everything for something like that?
How can I be a supportive friend while disagreeing with her choices? She knows I don’t support what she’s doing, and we haven’t talked about it since she opened up to me. — A disappointed friend from Massachusetts
Dear friend: You portray her as a loving individual. It sounds like her husband has been unable to engage for many years. You can still be a supportive friend without passing judgment. It might be worth considering how you express your support, especially if she doesn’t wish to discuss the affair further.
Dear Abby: I’m struggling to understand the decline in common courtesy. Why is it now okay to ignore calls, texts, and emails from friends? And for those who cancel plans simply because something better came along—this feels rude! What’s your take on this? — Disposed of in Canada
Dear Disposer: Honestly, if this behavior happens more than once, it might be time to evaluate how close those people really are to you and adjust your expectations accordingly.
Dear Abby was created by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was started by her mother, Pauline Phillips. For more information, visit www.DearAbby.com or write to PO Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
