Leave government out of quitting smoking addiction

Smoking and other addictions are misunderstood by the public and distorted by those in authority. Any addiction is genetic and hereditary with painful origins. The Food and Drug Administration cannot change a disease. It is not God.

If children see their parents or friends suppressing their inner pain by smoking, this modeling is followed. The family or friends support each others' pain. If they do not stop the emotional pain with smoking, it will be other drugs, prescriptions, gambling, eating, shopping, coffee, chocolate, pop, sex or any other addiction to replace it that you can name. People just substitute one addiction for another.

Addiction was declared a disease in 1995 by the American Medical Association. The current paradigm does not usually address a spiritual answer. I healed seven addictions. I know from my experience stopping smoking was harder than alcohol and some prescription drugs. However, with a daily spiritual program like that found in the 12-step programs, addictions can be arrested.

This is a perfect example of too much government ["Big tobacco finally loses," Opinion, editorial, June 12]. Walking away from the cigarette, alcoholic drink or gambling are all personal choices. Everyone has the right to learn healthy alternatives, receive solutions that work and not be treated like a child.

-- Marilyn Redmond, Edgewood