Touchy subject.
Personally, I don't like being told what I can or cannot do with (or to) my body. I knew the cigarettes were bad and I made the choice to smoke them...now I choose to quit.
I also don't like the idea of government telling private business that they can or cannot allow smoking within their establishments. If a restauranteur wants to have a smoking section or not should not concern the government. If you don't want to be around the smoke, don't go there. If another restauranteur decides to be a non-smoking establishment that is their choice. If you are a smoker who can't get through a meal without a smoke, you wouldn't go to that establishment. The free-market system will work out the details of this argument.
I would agree to the government outlawing it on government property, including parks. But, they're now talking about outlawing it in private homes, come on! Really?! This is dangerous ground. If they can stop me from smoking in my house, what's next? Butter, beef, candy, cheese or coffee? How about spray paint, glue, insecticides, solvents and gasoline? Do what you need to do for yourself and your kids, but leave me alone! I'll take care of myself and my family and I will leave you alone too.
As a new ex-smoker I too have a lot of anger for the manufacturers of the death sticks that kept me in their grip for decades. I hate the smell of the smoke and I am terrified that I will lose my quit. However, I will fight any attempt to remove personal liberties here in the States.
I will also say for the benefit of all those who disagree with me, in the word of Voltaire: "I do not agree with what you have to say, but I'll defend to the death your right to say it." Another liberty worth fighting about.
[B]My Milage:[/B]
[B]My Quit Date: [/B] 1/29/2006
[B]Smoke-Free Days:[/B] 21
[B]Cigarettes Not Smoked:[/B] 262
[B]Amount Saved:[/B] $63
[B]Life Gained:[/B]
[B]Days:[/B] 3 [B]Hrs:[/B] 3 [B]Mins:[/B] 5 [B]Seconds:[/B] 31
