My explanation is simple. You are a bad influence on me. You have ruled my life for too many years far too long! I have been dependent on you through thick and thin, and fat and slim. And even when my head was in a tailspin, or after a love-in. You've taken away my independence. I found I couldn't stand up to you. You had me wrapped around your little finger. I didn't have the heart to tell you this all these years. Although, admittedly, there were several times I tried hinting with sarcastic remarks. You thought it was hilarious, thus, didn't take me serious. You never got the gist of what I have been trying to tell you.

Truthfully, I let you walk all over me because I liked you. In fact many times, I felt a love for you. You were always there when I needed you. However, I have to stand up on my own two feet. I need to learn how to handle the world on my own without you. It is going to be difficult in the beginning; however, I am going to try. My first step is to get you out of my life.

There may be a time of weakness; I may feel lost without you, and I might begin to pick up the receiver and call on you to see how you are doing...but don't expect it. The moment I pick up that receiver, I'll think twice before dialing. I will remember that you've been my crutch. I can no longer lean on you, because if I do, you will begin to stick to me like glue. My new buddy, Chantix, may help me through my weakness. At least he will be willing to let me stand up on my own. He will guard me against your polluted influence. I'm not sorry to inform you that you will never get to me through him. He will see to that.

Ciggy, you will find a friend elsewhere, though I will pity that friend. He will not realize what he is getting into by befriending you. You have the characteristics of a true Cancer being - you cling onto and smother those who befriend you. If I continue to associate with you, you may decide to literally suffocate me to death. In fact, I have heard through the grapevine that you are a murderer; that you have ruined many lives. I have finally come to my senses. I believe these rumors. You are a murderer! You ought to be locked up for your crimes. Apparently the authorities have not found absolute evidence that warrants your arrest. Obviously, you have pulled some strings in high places. I bet you have them wrapped around all 20 of your little fingers.

As I write this letter, I am beginning to feel animosity towards you. You and your higher authorities are an abomination to society. I don't know what I ever saw in you. Surely, some part of me will miss you because of some of the good memories we've shared all these years. However, I now know that during the majority of our times spent together, you were controlling my life. I hate you for that. Thus, dear Ciggy, I will not see you again!

By the way, if you think that you can sue me for slander, think again. This letter will self-destruct the moment you finish reading it. As a matter of fact, although I have never sued anyone, you may be the first. I could decide to sue you for infringement of my human right to live. However, I am now a non-smoker. I plan to live for a long time. You will no longer tempt me with your poisonous influence. I have relinquished your hold over my life hopefully forever.