Today one boy came in. Slim body, smart brain maybe, but coughing like old engine. I asked, “You smoke?”
He smiled. Said, “Only sometimes, sir. Stress relief.”
Hmm. I’ve heard that before.
I told him beta, cigarette don’t remove stress. It hides it for few minutes, and then gives it back double. First it touches your lungs, then your heart, then your brain. Quietly. No noise, no warning.
I have seen too many lungs turn black. Young boys, strong athletes even, who thought “ek sutta se kya hoga.” One became five, five became habit. Now they stand in front of me asking, “Can I fix it, doctor sir?”
I tell all your body is temple, not dustbin. Don’t put fire inside it. This world already too hot. If you’re stressed, walk barefoot in park, talk to friend, listen to old songs… but don’t light poison.
Smoking is not cool. Living long, strong, and happy that is cool.
I know you think “not me, I’ll be fine.” But disease don’t ask age. It just comes.
I’m not scolding. Just telling like father tells son. Cigarette gives nothing. Takes everything.
Stay well,
– Dr. who has seen too many good lungs die young
