I just read an interesting question, by weewillem.
(( When do you become a non-smoker ? ))
So, Just my personal view, but we may take the term, too lightly..
In a way, we can only really be ex smokers, but I like to preach learning to think like a non smoker, or more accurately, to stop thinking like a smoker. Some say, once a smoker, always a smoker, that just does not light up. I strongly disagree, but, at the same time, I do know some never really let go, and therefore do fit that description. When I decided to quit, after 45 years, it was not a decision to just not smoke. I made the choice to NOT be a smoker, ever again. It was my first, and only real attempt to quit. That was over 3 years ago now, and early on, I realized the change in my thinking.
When I smell someone's smoke there is no longing..
When I have a good stiff drink, or coffee, I do not miss the smoke that went with every one, for many years.
When I see someone smoking, my only thought is pity, because now, I understand that they are still the poor, stupid, slave that I was for too many years.
So, I suppose, when there is no longer ANY thought of wanting, missing, or craving, or any idea of a smoke, for any reason, then, and only then can you claim non-smoker status. I preach learning to THINK like a non-smoker, but if asked, I will simply say, I am not a smoker, or I WAS a smoker :)
What is your opinion ? Can we ever really be non-smokers ? In a way, ex-smoker is better, because only we can really know, and understand what it was, to be a SMOKER :)