You're so smoking...urgh!

So much is going on…people are flying into space, scientists are doing wonders with stem cells, Breaking Bad and Dexter are over…civilization seems to be at its peak. Well, almost.

Because, while the cure for cancer and the sniffles is just around the corner, when you leave any building in Moscow and head into the city, there they are: the smokers. Standing there, huffing and puffing their lungs away. And maybe it’s just me, but it seems that there’s more and more of them every day.

Honestly, I can see why people smoked tobacco in the 15^th century – it was a “thing” back then, it was new, and there was pretty much nothing else to do. Well, except die or discover something. Then, through the ages, cigarettes and cigars have been altering their status – at first, being something that only the rich could afford, then a symbol of emancipation for women, then just a stress-reliever that allowed one to meditate while picturing his or her life in the ringlets of smoke.

But, seriously. And I mean, SERIOUSLY. How dumb do you have to be to start smoking in the 21^st century? Everybody knows how bad it is for you! You smell disgusting, your teeth look horrible, you spit…everywhere! I’m not even going to say anything about the money you’re literally burning through.

The whole world is fixated on being healthy and beautiful. And Russia has 22-yearolds beginning to smoke! I understand the elderly who just can’t give up this habit, but the young people? What is that about? The government passes new laws, limiting the number of places where you can do that, but do I see a policeman writing out a ticket for smoking at the bus station? No. That means, the laws aren’t working. DUH.

 So what might be the reason? Some say, it’s the stress. “Oh, my teacher is so mean to me, I’m so stressed out, I need a smoke”. Oh, really? You want that teacher to see you smoking outside and treat you like even more of a loser? Then, by all means, go ahead.

For others, it’s the lyrical beauty of the visualised air leaving their lungs, only to dissapear, leaving a faint smell…you know, the touchy-feely types. Guys. No. Just…no. And this smell…not that faint. Go, paint something. Or listen to some music. Smoking hasn’t been associated with creativity in ages.

Being cool. It is NOT cool, how old are you, honestly? Don’t tell me about peer pressure, the smokers are usually loners, and you know, why? Because it is not cool!

Your parents smoke. A pretty legitimate reason, I have to admit, but seeing that you are a rebel in everything else that you do, why single smoking out?

This leaves us with one reason alone. Adolescents and young adults smoke because they have nothing else to do. Even if they have a busy schedual and live a full life. If they smoke – they’re not busy enough. They still have time to stand around doing nothing. Smoking is just there to give them a feeling of importance.

So, smokers, this part is really for you. Nobody can make you quit. It’s up to you. But, girls, no matter how hot you look, most guys that are worth dating will not even come up to talk to you. Guys, no matter how intelligent and sharp you are, girls who don’t smoke (and are, therefore, more healthy and good-looking than their burned-out rivals) are really sensitive to the smell of fumes you produce. Not saying how much this habit limits your job opportunities.

Like I said, it’s up to you. But please, stop. Seriously. Stop.