I've never been afraid of being seen smoking in public, even if my choice of smoking acessories atracts some intresting looks. But after the smoking ban forced the students at my university to stand outside halls to enjoy a cigarette I was shocked at how many people I had lived with joined me for one as they came and went from the building, admitting that they smoked often, but didn't want people to know. Has anyone else noticed this strange phenomina or is it just something that has turned the UK into some kind of second class citizen program?
You have my agreement in that respect BH . Britain has taken a huge step backwards in the smoking department. Go to Spain or Greece and pubs and clubs take a more sensible approach,( whether legal or not) allowing smoking in bars and certain public places where people are relaxing and having a good time. Smoking in eating establishments is still frowned upon naturally but having a cigarete with a beer late at night while enjoying the entertainment is often accepted.
I am not daft and can understand the harm smoking does but then again people have the right to decide for themselves. As for the people working behind the bar..if you dont like heights you dont become a window cleaner !!
As for secret smokers, I can vouch for what BH says in that there are more than you would think. But not enough smokers use a holder. In the seventies it was a glamorous fashion accessory as it was in the 20's and 30's. Now if you use one you tend to get noticed for other reasons. Such a shame but I still think that anyone who uses one has my great respect.
I've been a closet holder user for two decades.. I only get about 5-6 times a year where I can enjoy (this weekend upcoming being one yay!) but I totally understand the phenomenon...
Sigh, I've suddenly found a lot more sympathy for all those secret smokers after getting an earful from an anti-smoking nazi whilst outside having a cigarette yesterday. I wasn't the only person smoking so perhaps holder users qualify for special treatment. Mabey if there were a few less bossy people arround we could all get along better.