by Chris Earl

Created on: July 07, 2009   Last Updated: July 08, 2009

My dream is to find a large group of smokers enjoying a nice break in a public place. While they puff away, oblivious to the world around them I shall provide a treat. Dragging behind me a rotting, putrid carcass of some hideous animal I will proudly stroll into their cancerous orgy. Never mind the odor and the affect it has on others. I ask no forgiveness for the vile disease I spread. Do not even ask me to pick up the tiny pieces of waste I leave in my wake.

This is a facetious scenario, but many non-smokers feel exactly this way. The fumes and disease associated with tobacco use are repugnant like a rotting carcass. The lack of respect by smokers is a huge problem. Smokers need to understand these concerns and help reduce tension by using tobacco with restraint. Most of us have been stopped at a red light and the driver in front flips a cigarette butt out the window. In order to build goodwill, one should smoke only in designated areas and properly dispose of waste.

Non-smokers should reduce tension by accepting people have a right to smoke. No one can have a monopoly of ALL public space. Many bars and restaurants have adopted a 21 and over policy to ensure innocent minors are not affected. With the help of businesses we must set aside areas for smokers to enjoy.

Smokers are under assault at home as well. Some states ban smoking in apartment complexes. Parents are being prohibited from smoking in cars when children are present. Strangely enough, the government wants people to smoke. Do you need proof? They tax the habit instead of banning it. They make millions in taxes from smokers while other drug users end up in jail. The government therefore condones the behavior, so it is only fair they set aside enough areas for smokers to use.

Extremists on both sides try to ruin it for everyone. Some smokers could be standing in a giant ashtray and still find a way to throw their butts in the grass. Some non-smokers will not stop complaining until every tobacco plant world wide is destroyed. If people are willing to moderate their view a compromise might be reached.

We must find a middle ground! We all own a right to public places. We all share a responsibility to find a solution. If we are able to remove the tension from the issue, it will be much easier to find a lasting solution. Through cooperation, respect and a little common sense, we can all share the fruits of this great land.

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