A rabbi was asked by one of his students “Why did God create atheists?” After a long pause, the rabbi finally responded with a soft but sincere voice. “God created atheists” he said, “to teach us the most important lesson of them all – the lesson of true compassion. You see, when an atheist performs an act of charity, visits someone who is sick, helps someone in need, and cares for the world, he is not doing so because of some religious teaching. He does not believe that God commanded him to perform this act. In fact, he does not believe in God at all, so his actions are based on his sense of morality. Look at the kindness he bestows on others simply because he feels it to be right. When someone reaches out to you for help. You should never say ‘I’ll pray that God will help you.’ Instead, for that moment, you should become an atheist – imagine there is no God who could help, and say ‘I will help you’.”
— Martin Buber, “Tales of the Hasidim”
Quitting Vaping: A Journey of Self-Compassion Inspired by Martin Buber’s Wisdom
This quote from Martin Buber beautifully captures the essence of taking personal responsibility and showing true compassion, independent of any external force or belief. It’s about recognizing the power and potential within ourselves to make meaningful changes in the world—and in our own lives.
Taking Responsibility for Change
When it comes to quitting vaping, this same principle applies. It’s easy to hope that something outside of ourselves—a higher power, a miracle, or even sheer willpower—will help us overcome the addiction. But the real change comes when we take responsibility, acknowledge our own strength, and decide that we will be the ones to make it happen.
Just as the atheist in Buber’s tale acts out of a personal sense of morality, you can take the first step toward quitting vaping by realizing that the power to change is already within you. This isn’t about waiting for something external to guide you—it’s about recognizing that you have the ability, the compassion for yourself, and the strength to break free from vaping.
Hypnosis can be a tool to help unlock this inner strength, guiding your subconscious to align with your conscious desire to quit. But the most important part of this journey is your decision to take that step, to say, “I will help myself.” By doing so, you’re not just quitting vaping—you’re choosing to live a life that’s healthier, happier, and more in line with the person you truly want to be.
Compassion for Yourself and Others
By choosing to quit vaping, you’re making a profound commitment to yourself—a commitment to prioritize your health, your well-being, and your future. This journey may not be easy, but every step you take is a step toward reclaiming control over your life.
Think of it as an act of compassion, not just for yourself, but for those who care about you. When you decide to quit, you’re not only freeing yourself from the physical and psychological chains of nicotine addiction; you’re also setting an example of strength and determination for others who may be struggling with similar challenges.
Reprogramming Habits Through Hypnosis
The process of quitting is often about more than just resisting the urge to vape—it’s about reprogramming the habits and patterns that have been ingrained over time. Hypnosis can play a significant role here by helping you access your subconscious mind, where these habits reside, and guiding you to replace them with healthier, more positive behaviors. But it all begins with that moment of decision—the moment when you say to yourself, “I will help myself.”
This is where the true transformation happens. By acknowledging your inner strength and taking personal responsibility, you’re creating a new narrative for yourself—one where you’re in control, where you’re capable of overcoming challenges, and where you’re empowered to live a life that aligns with your deepest values and desires.
Celebrating Small Victories
As you move forward, remember that every small victory is a testament to your resilience. Every time you resist the urge to vape, you’re reinforcing your commitment to a healthier you. And with each passing day, you’ll find that the need for vaping diminishes, replaced by a growing sense of pride and self-respect.
Gaining More Than You Lose
In the end, quitting vaping is not just about giving something up—it’s about gaining so much more. It’s about reclaiming your health, your peace of mind, and your sense of freedom. It’s about proving to yourself that you have the power to change, to grow, and to thrive.
So, as you continue on this path, hold onto that compassion for yourself. Know that you are capable, that you are worthy of this change, and that the decision to quit vaping is one of the most profound acts of self-love you can offer. You are your own greatest ally in this journey, and with each step you take, you’re moving closer to the life you truly want to live.
I’m here to Guide You.
Daphne Stevens, Ph.D, LSCW
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