As we approach Father's Day, I am grateful for one of the many gifts given to me by my father. He did not smoke in an era when many of my friends' parents did. Most of these friends went on to become smokers themselves.
I am fortunate not to have had that influence at home, which has resulted in me not ever being a smoker. We need to be mindful that children learn from and mimic the adults in their lives. Parental smoking can easily be interpreted by a child that is it an acceptable behavior and habit.
Today, we know that smoking leads to many illnesses and even death. Second-hand smoke has been demonstrated to have long-term effects on children exposed to cigarette smoke in their homes. As we celebrate mothers and fathers, please refrain from smoking. It is a long-term gift that will benefit you and your children.
Marjorie Geiger
Albany