Why is it sad when someone exercises the freedom to live their life in the manner they choose?
I'm the last person to think that; please don't put words in my mouth. What's sad is that this kid has chosen to put himself on an early road to emphysema and/or lung cancer. Three packs/day? That's a lot, especially given what we know about the effects of smoking.
Fine with me if people smoke. It's unbelievably stupid, but people can choose to be stupid AFAIC.
What will be sad is if he's not one of the lucky ones and all that smoking catches up to him.
I am 56 years old, I started smoking when I was about 15, I quit last year. BUT, when I quit is was too late for me.
Even though I am lucky enough to have a beautiful Bride who has stayed at my side for over 32 years, I have lot's of toys, two great grownup kids and 5 fantastic grandchildren, I am paying dearly for all that smoking. I have emphysema and I can tell you, this disease really changes your quality of life.
I have NOTHING but respect for that Marine and he can smoke all that he wants as far as I am concerned. I am NOT one of those that goes around now and rags on smokers...some reformed smokers can be the worst!!! BUT, I do hope that he quits before he finds himself like me........ living a far lesser life than originally planned.
For me, I would gladly trade all that freedom to smoke that I enjoyed over the years, for what I have now lost in quality of life...but heck, that's just me.