Smoking ethics
As a smoker, I know what it’s like to stand out in the freezing cold winter nights just to get that nicotine fix. I also know what it was like two semesters ago when they had the smoking ban on campus. During that semester, most smokers were in an uproar, protesting or blatantly ignoring the ban. Most non-smokers rejoiced and sometimes became openly angry about the fact that some people continued to smoke on campus. There was no longer a peaceful coexistence between smoker and non-smoker, with people fighting for each side. This was all in vain, though, as the next semester, the campus was no longer smoke-free.
I empathize with the non-smokers and wish smokers would be more considerate of their peers who don’t smoke. When walking through campus, I am mindful of the people around me, and try not to let my smoke assault them as I am walking past. If, while walking, I am in a line of people, I will move slightly out of line so my smoke isn’t blowing back into the person’s face behind me. Also, noticing there are plenty of ashtrays and trashcans strategically placed throughout the campus grounds, I usually try not to flick my cigarette on the ground, but rather put it out in an ashtray or make sure it’s out and throw it into a trashcan. Although I am a smoker, I try my best not to make my addiction someone else’s problem or annoyance. I know quite a few other smokers who are just as considerate of their non-smoking peers, yet there are others who are blind to the fact that it might bother other people to breathe in their smoke and see their cigarette butts on the ground.
That is why I took the time to write this article: to share with everyone who isn’t already aware of the simple ways that could help everyone live in a better, healthier, and cleaner campus. These habits are easy to begin and not time-consuming. But this is just one girl’s opinion, as I’m sure there are other opinions that oppose this argument, and people will ultimately do as they please. I just hope this article compels at least one person to consider the people near him or her next time he or she is smoking a cigarette.
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