I finally incorporated my last cigarette in a piece of art. Again I followed the temple format denoting simple columns and a frieze. The frieze is decorated with 25 burned matches representing the 25 years or so that I smoked and although I had many “left over” cigarettes I only used one with a nail through it. I also included a photograph taken of me smoking about 15 years ago. I actually like that photograph (I don’t like many photographs of me) – it was taken in a restaurant in Italy and I’m younger and look fresher. I transferred a copy of the photograph to wax paper and a scroll nailed onto the artwork. I wanted it to denote a time gone by, something in the past, the end of something.
I’ve been a non-smoker for eight months now and glad that I have quit. I was at home, in Ireland, for a week recently and I have to say that I didn’t think of a cigarette in all that time. However since I’ve been back I have thought about it more and am now questioning whether working on this project is prolonging withdrawal symptoms.
I was just thinking the same thing, Jackie; you probably have more willpower than anyone else I know for doing what you’re doing for other people’s last cigarettes. The temptation must be really intense! But then again…look at all the hope and willpower you’re giving to other quitters, just seeing their last cigarette in it’s perfect little tomb, finally laid to rest, symbolizing the death of their addictions. We are all extremely proud of you, Jackie.