up in the gym just working on my fitness.

I've always found it so interesting to ask why and when people started their bad habits. That said, I'm referring more specifically to smoking cigarettes. I remember sitting in fifth grade and having Officer Bob come in for those D.A.R.E programs... you know how it goes.

Say no to drugs.
Smoking kills.
Cocaine is bad.
Don't smoke pot.

But D.A.R.E. was a great first plunge into the "badness" of drugs. I think there should always be public funding for that program because it's good. I mean, I obviously can't argue the fact that smoking cigs are bad. But there's that superiority complex that I (and most people) have. "Oh, yes I smoke, but I'm not addicted!" And this brings me up to the funny and oh-so-lame story about why/when I started smoking.

I went to California for Spring Break, went to a club, saw some really badass looking people smoking. I mean, everyone who is anything smoked. These people where wearing pink tights, Milly tops, and carrying Chanel bags. That was the ~allure~ like a social status. Holding a Marlboro Light in between your index and middle finger, slowing moving it towards your mouth, inhaling, moving your hand, and exhaling. It's just such a sensual movement. And so classy.

Many people are surprised when they see me light up.
I consider myself a social smoker. You know, someone offers me a cig, I accept and smoke with them. I keep a pack on me nowadays, but I never smoke by myself. I mean, it took me a year to actually buy a pack for myself.

So when I smoke, I know that I'm doing something really bad for myself, but again, that complex just kicks in. "I'm not addicted. I'm a social smoker. I have will power so I won't be one of those people who smokes a pack a day. It's for fun. I just like the feel of it." All of which seem like pretty big flags for someone who is addicted. But, honestly, I'm not addicted to the nicotine just the appeal that I think it brings.

And that thing, that thing that I've scumbled to is the main thing to which I believe despite D.A.R.E.'s great presence in schools today, there's still a huge flaw. Teenage smoking is increasing in prevailing numbers. What's wrong with those D.A.R.E programs is that they aren't there to tell you that you don't or you won't feel just "that much cooler" by smoking a cigarette.

Sure it's bad, but what business gets done over eating a stick of celery?