I have had a relationship with cigarettes since I was about 13 years old.  On and off and on and off.  I have been a light smoker.  I’ve been a sporadic smoker.  I’ve been a pack-a-day smoker.  And mostly I have been a non-smoker.  I am not smoking now and have no desire for them anymore.  The last time I quit I used Champix and it really did the trick for me.  Well, that plus the knowledge that when you’re 50+ you can no longer pretend that it is kinda hip and young.  I would go to bed at night clearing my throat again and again.  I’m glad I am done with them – although I should say I am a recovering smoker and not that I am done with them, I guess.

Here in Mazatlán, there is a law making it illegal to smoke indoors at a restaurant.  I don’t know the details, but there are signs up and I believe it is being enforced.  Most of the restaurants here have at least part of their seating outdoors, which works out for those who smoke.

The thing is, I have noticed quite a difference between the way most Americans and Canadians smoke and the way most Mexicans do.  Has anyone else noticed this?  Or am I the only one?

Canadians and Americans who smoke carry their cigarettes with them.  They will smoke while having a drink before dinner and as soon as dinner is over.  When they arrive at their table, whether it is at a palapa or a sidewalk cafe, out come the smokes.  It is as much an activity for them as the drinking, eating or chatting. Restaurants and activities are chosen partially based on whether smoking will be accepted.

I’m not judging here.  I have done more than my share of it, believe me.

I have noticed that Mexicans – especially middle class Mexicans – typically sit around for hours over drinks and food, chatting and occasionally lighting up a smoke.  Many people are occasional smokers – they will borrow a cigarette or ask the waiter for a pack or a single when they have the urge.  I know women who always have a pack in the bottom of their purse but only occasionally pull it out and have one.  The time just has to be right!  There’s something about it that just feels less obsessive to me.

I’m done with cigarettes, really I am.  But if I were ever to start again, I would strive to smoke like a Mexican.