Tobacco

When I was growing up, tobacco hanging in the barn was a common sight this time of the year. It was a scene repeated on every farm across the state. It was part of the livelihood and culture of the whole society. They even included cigarettes in "C" rations, back when military service was compulsory for us young males. All the economic and societal pressures were constantly reinforced by TV commercials like the one below. I smoked more than 2 packs a day for well over 40 years, but haven't smoked in over 4 years now.




[I'd give anything for a cigarette right now].