For me, and maybe for you, cigars are a transformative experience. What do I mean by that, exactly? Do they whisk me away to another, far-away and magical place? No, not really. But also, kind of.
I’ve been asked before why people smoke cigars. My answer is always the same. The flavors, the relaxation, and the experience, whether you’re smoking alone or with others. I mostly smoke alone, though, in my own little paradise.
When I sit down, trim the cap, and get to toasting the foot of my cigar, gently brushing the flame back and forth like a paintbrush, I’m in my happy place. It’s not my only happy place. But it is a big one. Not an addiction, mind you, but rather an escape. An escape from mediocrity, an escape from the crumbling world, and also, sometimes, an escape from others.
For a long time, before I lost it, I was a salaried copywriter for a decently-sized media company. I spent most of my day working with various clients to craft content that met their style needs, made the points they wanted to make, and drove home their products or services to people like you or me — consumers.
I still kind of do that with Techigar, but now it’s on my terms.
The point I’m trying to make, though, is that I spent a lot of time working with, and for, others. Cigars were my peaceful bliss at the end of the day, and even right now, they remain my outlet for releasing stress, anxiety and other worldly issues.
That’s why I smoke.
I love the flavors. I love the experience. But most of all, I just like relaxing and getting away from the monotony of everyday life. There’s no one nagging me to hurry up or finish what I’m doing. No one criticizes how or why I’m doing things a certain way. No one insulting me, or questioning me, or goading me.
No, I’d imagine not. Some people smoke cigars because it’s part of their culture. Others, because it’s their job or what they do to make a living. For some still, it’s a status symbol, or a way to say “hey, I like fine things in life.”
For me, it’s not like that. I don’t smoke to look good, portray a certain lifestyle or even to engage with others — though sometimes that does happen when I’m in a lounge. I smoke for me.
Don’t get me wrong. I do love sharing the craft with others, and introducing new people to cigars. Sometimes, I also love to venture out, hit a local spot, or go to big events — like the Tampa Cigar Bash. But a majority of the time, it’s just me, my dogs, with a TV or some tunes on, and a lit stogie with a sweet, cold beverage. Honestly, that’s the way I prefer it, and I’m sure many will agree.
Cigars are an excellent way to drown out the negatives of the modern world, but also, just a downright reliable way to kick back and really enjoy yourself. That’s why I always like to preach the importance of having a vice in today’s fucked up, unpredictable world.
Briley has over 16 years in the publishing and content marketing business. He's been writing about cigars for nearly half that in various forms. What makes him a tour de force is he also smokes them.
Source: La Aurora
