My Life on a Plate

What Stinks?

I read of a survey on MSN frontpage today conducted to find out what people consider to be the most unpleasant odours. I have to question WHY anyone would want to know that information, but conclude it's some sort of research for air freshener manufacturers. I also wonder why, when I read or hear of a survey almost every day, no one has ever asked my opinion on anything. But I digress.

According to the survey of over 2000 people the most unpleasant smell is cigarette smoke. Now, I'm a smoker and I'm not proud. I don't condone the habit or deny the seriousness of it's effects and I would LOVE to be a non- smoker. I try also to be very considerate around others who do not smoke. BUT, much as I agree it can be an unpleasant smell I have to say, I can think of at least FIVE things more offensive to my nostrils.

The anti-smoking brigade really do make the poor addicted smoker's life a misery. I understand their concerns, but sometimes it seems every illness, accident, natural disaster, war and evil in the world is blamed on smokers.

It's suggested smokers pay for their own medical treatment. Well, what about drinkers, drug addicts, the obese, careless drivers, potholers, mountaineers, motor race drivers to name but a few? Are they not also taking risks with their health and none of them pay the obscene amount of tax smokers cough up (excuse the pun) on every packet they buy.

YES, I know about passive smoking too. Hence the proposed ban in all pubs and restaurants. So, smokers will gather outside amongst the streaming traffic pumping out carbon monoxide and then be blamed for causing the hole in the ozone layer too, no doubt.

I know there are many who will disagree with me, but have you any idea what it feels like to be treated like a leper and have negativity thrust in your face every five minutes. Give it up you say? Nicotine is more addictive than heroin; many succeed I know, but for some of us it's exceedingly difficult, particularly in the midst of stress.

I think I'll go make a poster regarding smells.

'I promise not to smoke around you, as long as you promise not to sweat, fart or breathe garlic around me'

Dangerous they may not be, but as far as odours go I consider them far more offensive than cigarette smoke.