I stepped out into the smoking area of my department and I was startled to find a guy who I’ve been working with for some time, smoking. Just as surprised as I was, he asked me if I smoked… while I was lifting a cigarette to my lips and striking my lighter. We made polite small talk, we talked about the weather, his shoes, my shoes (I must admit, the Imelda in me brought the subject up), and weekend plans. With pleasantries dealt with, he left me to finish my cigarette. Walking back, I stopped in the restroom to wash my hands, (smokers… wash your hands) and I noticed a familiar pair of shoes in the stall. I giggled to myself as I remembered a little story.

Years ago I had a conversation with a smoking buddy, about our day-to-day routine and we got onto the subject about morning ablutions. We heartily agreed all mornings had to start off with coffee. I was, and still am, a light-weight smoker and I didn’t require a cigarette with that first cup of joe. A rabid creature of habit, my friend admitted that a coffee and cigarette was the only way to get up and go this morning. “It’s like intestinal yoga. When you have your cigarette and coffee, it gets stuff moving before you take a shower.” I have to admit, this chemical cocktail does not do the trick for me, but I don’t doubt that it works.

PSBTW: My co-worker, is from Bangalore.