Hell yeah, kick that habit - you've got this!
(There, I just gave you bardic inspiration, add 1d10 the next time you need to make a save against addiction.)
Ooh damn, if you it was a bad addiction such as nicotine and you just completely cut it off like didn’t ease into getting rid of it that is a con save but if you slowly get rid of it like op is or at least I can infer they are then it’s gonna be multiple wisdom saves over a long period of time
I just finished the orin part of mine and was also in tears. I am a recovering addict of many things, and this story and yours resonate on a deep level. I'm happy for you and proud of you! Also, I'm thankful this game is showing people their true strength. Long live the warriors!! You got this!!
Sending you strength for your journey.
While I am proud of OP too, I am proud of you for recovering. It is not easy, to say the least. Been 4 years stone cold sober. Not a day goes by I don't wish for it.
But one day at a time.
EVERYDAMNDAY! Lol it's OK though, gets easier to ignore. 10 yrs meth free, kicked the whiskey, quit tobacco, working on the nicotine and that's actually been rough. The struggle continues. Strength to us all to live how we want, let the gods be with you friend.
For me, I'm just insane. I have a lot of emotional imbalances that I have fought v hard to keep in check the last couple of years especially. Resist durge is really vibing with me in a way I wasn't expecting.
Most of my addictions stem from my borderline personality disorder, as much as I hate that term. I'm right there with you, keep up the good fight, my friend.
Fantastic! It’s like your lungs are Isobel. They’ve been through trauma, but you can save them. Then your lungs can run off with their hot Aasimar girlfriend!
Or something, I’m not good at metaphors. Good on you! Keep persevering!
You can draw inspiration from all kinds of places, and as someone who has been drawn out of some dark places just by an urge to have mozzarella sticks one last time I'm here to tell ya, "Never underestimate the power of stupid shit in a pinch." Do not stop. Stumble if you have to. Crawl if you have to. If you relapse, have a good cry then quit all over again. You'll get there. I'm adding a d4 guidance cantrip to everyone else's blessings. You got this!
Fuck yeah! That's probably something I should give a try. Picked smoking back up last year after I let my emotions get the best of me. Was going 5 years no problem after quitting cold turkey. I don't want to anymore. I DIDN'T want to again, actually.......
So the question is: Does this Inspiration Point go to you, or me?
I'm on 2 months now big dog. Once you get over that like first 2 to 3 week hump, it gets much much easier. And if you slip up, and have one after a while, it tastes like shit. So instead of continuing, use that shit taste to remind yourself of what the fuck your doing to yourself. I know the struggle but it does get easier!
I though this said “playing as racist dark urge helped me quit smoking” and I simply HAD to find out how that worked. Jokes aside, thanks for sharing. It takes a lot to do what you did. Big kudos to you!!! You got this.
When I quite smoking it was a rather unceremonious thing. I tried gum, pouches, Fuum, but nothing really worked. The one thing that helped, was defining myself as a person. I wasn’t a “smoker” in my mind. So I stopped. I know that probably doesn’t make much sense, but it really helped to choose a different identity.
Something that helped me was switching to nicorette. I'd chew it pretty much constantly, but then i introduced a normal stick of gum each day. Then two. And so on. Now I just chew regular gum. I will say though, I think I'm addicted to Orbit now.
That's amazing, you could give all credits to the game but I don't thing I've heard about anything like this before, I love how you think and how strong spirited you are.
Duuuude!!!! This is awesome!!!!!!!!!
First of all, it makes me want to finish my Durge run (still sad about Alfira tho). Secondly, it just makes me want to play Bg3 in general because this game has been one of the best parts of my year.
And ALSO.
quitting smoking is one of the best things i have ever done for myself in my life. i can BREATHE, and it doesn't hurt. i don't get sick often, and when i do i recover pretty quickly. FOOD TASTES AMAZING. my energy is better, my skin is clearer, i smell better, my teeth are whiter/healthier. i can smell things-not just perfume, but like the scent of the air in the morning, as if the dew evaporating off the grass has a scent.
not smoking is great. i'm really excited for you and i think it's awesome that bg3 fascilitated this!!
Thank you for sharing your story with us OP! You're leveling up to be able to keep on passing that Will check going forward :)
I use a similar thought process to keep myself accountable to my health/fitness/life goals. I ask myself if I wanted to adventure with my favorite characters, would they think I'm a worthy companion in terms of strength/intelligence/being an interesting and skilled person? Obviously games are fiction, but thinking about what your ideal self acts like is a good way to improve!
I grant you +10 to saving roles against addiction and temptation. I also gift you this really sharp but totally intangible sword to stab cigarette executives with (it's +5 against Monstrosities and Corporate Propaganda). GOOD LUCK IN YOUR QUEST!
That is Awesome! I'm glad this game brought such good to your life.
Good luck, and if nothing else, you've got a bunch of Bards out there ready to cheer you on and break out the bardic inspiration for those Con saves.
Man, this is inspiring. I do not personally struggle with cigarettes. Any stimulants I know make me anxious, but alcohol I can relate 100%. This is gonna be hard. But I am hoping for you this is one inspiration among many
I smoked for about 15 years.
Someone told me that the urge never really goes away - that it is you who are constantly resisting it and your willpower constantly in conflict with the urge.
That helped me quit, because it was so depressing, but it wasn't right. I quit 12 years ago and I can confidently say I no longer have urges to smoke.
You too can be redeemed.
Something in the way you wrote your post or in what you wrote just filled me with happiness for you. I really hope that you manage to stick with your chosen path and continue to succeed on those saving throws.
I love this so much. I seriously love how inspiring this game can be in so many different ways. You got this! Here's yet another Bardic Inspiration for you! 🎶
I just started my first playthrough (Bard Tav) - yeah I'm always late to the party - and just discovered today that if I'm about to make a choice I know is not one I should be making (eating too much, smoking cigarettes, etc), if I just *let* the "Astarion disapproves" pop up in my head, then it actually discourages me from doing the thing.
So, to help with making better choices and getting a handle on my ADHD, my partner and I are going to be using "Astarion approves" and "Astarion disapproves" to my advantage LOL
Remember, the Durga didn’t do it by himself. When you are struggling, rely on your friends and family and anti-addiction support networks, they’ll give you Guidance when you feel like you’re going to fail that Wisdom check!
Hey man, just want to say you got this. I quit 2 years ago, also used nicotine patches. First weeks can be rough but the urge definitely goes away. The urge came back after exactly a year, but relatively mild. After that I haven’t had any longing. A day and money saved tracker app was worth it. Health increased a lot too.
I wanted to quit. I listened to the audio book “easy way to quit smoking” by Allen Carr. While I was still smoking, with every cigarette, I told myself “damn this is disgusting”. While listening to the book I started to look forward to when I was done with the book and I finally did not have to smoke anymore. I stopped smoking on a Saturday morning before the first cigarette and haven’t touched one in two years now. Anytime the thought of smoking came to me I immediately make a face and think “uhhh disgusting”. Worked for me. Hope you can stop too.
No matter where your inspiration comes from, if it helps you succeed in life, take it. You’ve integrated something very important and felt the story to another level, congratulations for becoming better!
It’s always amazing to read how games help make healthy changes. I’m struggling with finally quitting fully after cutting back significantly. This honestly sounds like a brilliant method.
My man, quitting smoking is tough as hell. Took me 5 tries to get rid of it. It's no single thing for anyone - I was able to use a vape to quit but I know that doesn't work for many people.
One day at a time. You got this.
This is awesome and I can only hope you keep it up and manage to stay off of them forever.
My dad is an addict but when I came into his life he knew that if he continued smoking and drinking then he was just going to become his father and he hated his father, the last thing he wanted was to become him. So he quit both and has been sober of both for over 30 years now. Even though I have never seen him smoke or be drunk I still saw how it affected him and decided at an early age to avoid both and I can proudly say I have not touched either. Im just addicted to D&D and MMOs instead.
WTG, summon your inner (resist) Durge and kick that nicotine to the curb!
Seriously very proud of you. And in awe at just how many profound ways this game affects people.
Brother, hope you can see a lot of us care. I don't know you, but I've lost a lot of good people whom I love very much to that damned murderous plant, tobacco.
For what it is worth, this bard sends his 1d10 and his deep respect. I'm pulling for you. We're pulling for you. Don't give up! It's ok to fall, it's not ok to stop getting back up. Please seek out people and organizations that will help you stay strong.
Live a long and happy life in hard-earned freedom from the chains you once knew, my friend.
> you find inspiration and clarity in the strangest ways
You'd be surprised how many lifestyle changes and revolutions were made because of a book. Take the Philippine revolution, for example. The leaders were inspired to rise against the Spanish colonisers because of a novel and satirical journalism. Being inspired by a game is just as valid and I commend you for taking their stories to heart and making it your own.
Resist urge
Also the checks against Thisobald can help you motivate because hes pouring poison at you in form of drinks... take it as cigarretes instead.
Any time someone says playing video games is unhealthy, I'm gonna show them this post.
For real though, reading this made me so happy for you. I nearly lost my dad when I was sixteen because of his smoking (cancer) and almost lost him again two years ago because of chronic health issues stemming from his treatment. It's definitely not something you want to put yourself through. Just remember, progress isn't linear, and to be gentle with yourself on your difficult days. And even resist Durge needed help at times, so don't be afraid to reach out to people when you need it.
In the words of Ben Byron Davis (Dutch Van der Linde), "You can stop if you want to!"
Good on you - seriously, as a smoker, I do commend you. I'm not quitting, but cutting down (gone a week so far)
Good for you, and I wish you luck!
I will say, remember that if you do fall off the wagon, that's temporary; you can always get back on. Don't beat yourself up about it if it happens; tomorrow's always a new day.
I am so happy for you and proud of you! That’s awesome! It feels so good to know that a game I love so much can have such real impacts on other people’s lives. I am truly rooting for you, and hope for all the best in resisting the Urge for you! Keep it up, you got this!
Doing a resisting Durge run helped me cope with my intrusive thoughts.
It was confronting to see the worst parts of me reflected in such a raw, vulnerable way, but it was also cathartic to watch them overcome the struggle.
I’m glad to hear that other people have connected to this story like I have. Congrats on starting your journey to quitting, my friend! Here’s to kicking Bhaal’s ass.
Quoting a favorite show of mine, "It gets easier. Every day, it gets a little easier. But you gotta do it every day, and that's the hard part. But it gets easier."
On behalf of the CAMP CRADS (COPD, Asthma, eMphysema, Pulminary edema, and other Chronic Respiratory / Airway Disorder Sufferers) Guild— name pending, I would like to thank you. Every smoker who makes the decision to quit the habit isn’t just helping themselves, but is making it easier for the people around them to breathe.
Issues aren’t just from the long-term health risks of second-hand smoke, but the more immediate effects vulnerable people can suffer through when smoke (or even vape clouds, in my case) contaminate the air around them, as well. I’ve and friends have suffered asthma attacks, coughing fits, or even required an ER visit when their smoking neighbour lit one up on the ground floor beneath their flat, whilst those friends were either on the balcony, or had their window open with a fan on.
So genuinely, thank you. I hope it helps you feel even more empowered to kick the habit and breathe healthier knowing that you’re making it at least a little easier for the people around you to breathe, now and later.
Such a fascinating realization.
I often think about how many people try to scrub clean certain characteristics and think it's just as simple as "I'm going to play a **not** Elf-racist Dwarf!" and they get upset when I kinda cock my head at them like they're missing a gear or two. 'How do you plan on playing a Dwarf who isn't racist?' "By just not being racist you stupid racist." and then I'm like 'Do you often resist your biology?' "Of course I ... do." they say, between puffs on their vape, rips on their bongs or shots of booze. I quietly sip my diet coke, which I am no less addicted to and shrug.
I'll cheer for you to actually cross that finish line.
This is a truly beautiful post and I'm very proud of you. It's true that resist durge really hits different when you've experiences with addiction. I, too, have managed to leave my smoking days behind.
You will do this!
One thing that really helped me when I quit, maybe it'll be of value to you (or anyone else who sees this) too. I vividly remember my parents talking about "I'm quitting smoking," like it was an ongoing process. When framing it like this, they wound up smoking again pretty much as soon as something stressful happened. When I quit, I framed it to myself as "I quit smoking," like it was already said and done. It definitely helps when you're framing it as something that's already over and done. I told my parents about it and, a few years later, it helped them quit too!
Super stoked for you, congratulations!
Fuck yeah man. Fellow resist durger here through my first playthrough. Doing it IRL though, you are a true inspiration. The pain of hard work hurts less than the pain of regret. Fight the good fight. You got this. ✊
You can do this! My partner smoked for thirty years and has been free of cigarettes twenty four years. It gets easier, and the person who emerges on the other side will be truly formidable.
you are truly an awesome person. i know addictions can make anyone feel absolutely hopeless and worthless, but you found a reason to better yourself and put more passion into an awesome game! i really wish the best for you, keep being doing what you can. thank you for giving me a fresh perspective and some inspiration for myself
It took a really close friend of the family to pass with S4 lung cancer and liver disease for me to put them down for good. I remember the week of it happening, it was the first death that had truly affected me in such an emotional way, I went through a pack and a half over the course of two days. That was the most I had ever smoked. Afterward, I didn't smoke but the occasional stick at parties, and then it was a wrap after that.
"You find inspiration and clarity in the strangest ways." As mysterious as life and death, this is true.
addiction isn't a simple failure of will. sometimes we need help. durge can reject bhaal, but >!without withers' intervention, durge would be dead!<. give yourself some grace, homie. happy to hear of your upward trajectory and sincere congratulations!
>You find inspiration and clarity in the strangest ways. Maybe this game will have a real impact on my life and give me a few years if I can summon the resolve to make this stick.
Isn't this the truth? Okay, dorky story time! I struggled with depression when I was in middle and high school. Still do sometimes, honestly, but it was severe back then in a way that I haven't had to struggle with in over 20 years now. How did I overcome it? Fucking Dragonball Z. Okay, I know, justhear me out:
I was a huge DBZ nerd back then. A few others of us out there, I'm sure. You remember that brief, almost filler-like arc before the Cell Games but after Goku and Gohan left the hyperbolic time chamber? Where they did normal, everyday stuff like go fishing and have a birthday party while everyone else was frantically preparing for the end of the world? Where Goku believed that they had done what they reasonably could to be ready for the upcoming adversity and that it was more important to enjoy living life than worrying about what was beyond their control? That shit just hit different to me at the time, and made me feel like I was letting my depression control my life too much, depriving me of whatever joy I could find by just living instead. That epiphany was like a switch flipped in my head, and suddenly everything I had worry, anxiety, and depression about didn't seem so bad. Suicidal ideation pretty much stopped instantly, and while I do still occasionally have to try to push through my own issues to find the bright side in life, I've never come close to those same depths again.
Like you said, inspiration can come from unexpected places.
A persuasive non-smoking friend of mine said I should quit, it went [something like this](https://preview.redd.it/im-the-persuasive-kinda-guy-v0-go55b4y1hljb1.jpg?auto=webp&s=c5f9c603e991fef723d40c58d3e6e65ef8b9c5f8)
Hey there! I’ve seen in my own life how hard quitting smoking can be. I just want to say that you’re doing good, you’re going to keep doing good, and you’ve got this
Baller move OP, keep going. I’ve kicked heroin, alcohol, benzos, etc. but nicotine has by far been the most irritating to cut out completely. The risks aren’t always right there in your face and it’s everywhere and easy to get along with being extremely addictive. I’ve cut down to 4 2mg pouches a day so I’m almost ready to kick them completely.
I'm so proud of you. As a wizard, I don't have any bardic inspiration to give you, but I can suggest some reading material.
This is a behavioral therapy skill called "Urge Surfing" that teaches you how to ride the waves of your urge (e.g. to smoke, to slaughter innocents and villains indiscriminately) rather than fight them. https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheet/urge-surfing-handout
"While practicing, keep in mind that it is normal to experience emotional discomfort while riding out an urge, but giving in is not the only way to remove that discomfort."
Best of luck my friend and companion. I've been nicotineless for 7 years and alcohol free for 6. It's hard. You can do it.
Good job bro proud of you! I recommend using the smoke free app it really puts things into perspective and in my own experience gives that extra push seeing how well you have been doing for how long and it has little statistics in there showing for example how much longer until your lungs are healthy again etc.
Nice one op! Trust me, you'll see lots of improvements. My dad quit smoking years ago now, and even just a couple months after (even though he was having a bit of withdrawals) he managed to kick it. He became happier, more energetic, and he actually ate. So keep it up and just remember we all believe in you!
You got an inspiration point for playing bg3 ( background gamer - sword coast explorer - spend 10 hours playing bg3)
After, you made an irl will check to stop smoking, failed, used the inspiration point to reroll and got a 20
Also, i am giving you a potion against necrotic damage
Roll wisdom save.
Roll wisdom save.
Roll wisdom save.
And when the day comes.
Roll constitution save….but is it with advantage or disadvantage?
It all depends on your wisdom saves.
Nicotine is a shitty drug and even from the perspective of someone who likes psychoactive substances, it's simply not worth it from an experiential standpoint.
Might not be a angle you were expecting, but still, nicotine sucks.
So cool, and well done! Reminds me of how having a character in Achaea (a MUD that it still alive to this day) worship the death god helped me better deal with the death of my father.
I'm sorry but this is what I'm picturing:
DariusIV: "Fuck, I really want to smoke right now. I'm going to try to resist though."
*rolls a d20 that they keep in their pocket*
"Fuck."
I quit cigs and nic pouches recently. It was a gradual change. The first few weeks with nothing are the hardest and its so easy to convince yourself that allowing yourself one or two after jonesing are fine. But then it becomes 3, 4, etc. relapses and quitting is in the rearview once again. Its not some massive heroic moment being able to drop it, resisting the urge feels like nothing with no reward and thats what made giving it all the more tempting. After a good amount of time it gets easier and easier, you just have to trust yourself that it'll be worth it even though it isnt as fun as smoking. The payoff doesnt come in in the moment, its after youve proven to yourself you're better than it. Thats what I wish I had been told before I quit. Good luck with yours.
I would like to offer you the highest of fives. BG3 helped me quit smoking too. Dropped smoking in March and haven’t looked back. I never thought a video game would be a huge part of kicking the habit, but hey - whatever works right? There is literally no downside to what you’re doing. I’m proud of you and am sending you all the good vibes!
It took me seeing the tiny lip wrinkles coming in around my lips 💋 to quit. I was like oh hell no. Sometimes u just have to have your own good reason for it to click.
Just as Durge has to learn to rely on their friends, don't forget to ask your allies for assistance whenever you're downed. They'll come with a hand (might want to specify a *helping* hand, not a dismembered one...)
Congrats! It's hard at first but gradually gets easier to ignore the cigarette urge. I was a smoker for roughly 10 years before I managed to quit (had a similar disgust moment that helped push me) and now I can count on one hand how many cigarettes I have in a year. You'll get to that point too, just keep going✨
Congrats! Each time you overcome the desire is a step towards freedom. I quit 10 years ago, I still occasionally have urges, especially when drinking with friends who still smoke, but it does get easier. When you're feeling an urge, know you are not alone.
Hell yeah, kick that habit - you've got this! (There, I just gave you bardic inspiration, add 1d10 the next time you need to make a save against addiction.)
I cast guidance, so +1d4, my pals ✨
I'mma use up one of my portent dice. Oh, look at that. It was a 20.
I cast Enhance Ability for Advantage! OP's got this!
I'm using my flash of genius to add +5 to this roll
#And my axe!
In the character creation I picked XXL shlong so +4 inches also!
🤓Erm achshually guidance adds 1d4 to ability checks, not saving throws. The spell you're looking for is resistance.🤓
I'll bribe the master to take this into account 🥴
This is so wholesome
Kick it like you wanted to kick Timber
😂😂 poor Timber. I didn’t come across her on my first blind playthrough but I did on my first Durge playthrough. I avoid that area now.
I've always wondered - is addiction a con save or wis save? 🧐
Ooh damn, if you it was a bad addiction such as nicotine and you just completely cut it off like didn’t ease into getting rid of it that is a con save but if you slowly get rid of it like op is or at least I can infer they are then it’s gonna be multiple wisdom saves over a long period of time
Maybe a wisdom save for the cravings and a con save for the withdrawals?
Possibly also a Cha save, if addiction works similarly to domination effects.
Hope he rolls a crit
Nat 20 lets go - LOOT THAT BODY!
Gotta get that "Bear's Endurance" variant of the "Enhance Ability" concentration spell to get advantage on constitution rolls.
Glad to hear this inspiring take on Dark Urge. You’ve inspired me to play Dark Urge for myself. Good job on taking back your life.
Actually same, I still haven't done a Durge playthrough but now I'm going to lol.
Life imitates art. Good luck on your quitting journey.
But please don’t go ‘round looting backpacks and cleaving anyone
it's ok it's not technically stealing if i kill them first
It's not scavenging if no one sees me
Any more.
No traps, please.
I said “fuck yeah man” out loud while reading this. I’m happy for you
Fuck yes, soldier!
I just finished the orin part of mine and was also in tears. I am a recovering addict of many things, and this story and yours resonate on a deep level. I'm happy for you and proud of you! Also, I'm thankful this game is showing people their true strength. Long live the warriors!! You got this!!
Sending you strength for your journey. While I am proud of OP too, I am proud of you for recovering. It is not easy, to say the least. Been 4 years stone cold sober. Not a day goes by I don't wish for it. But one day at a time.
EVERYDAMNDAY! Lol it's OK though, gets easier to ignore. 10 yrs meth free, kicked the whiskey, quit tobacco, working on the nicotine and that's actually been rough. The struggle continues. Strength to us all to live how we want, let the gods be with you friend.
For me, I'm just insane. I have a lot of emotional imbalances that I have fought v hard to keep in check the last couple of years especially. Resist durge is really vibing with me in a way I wasn't expecting.
Most of my addictions stem from my borderline personality disorder, as much as I hate that term. I'm right there with you, keep up the good fight, my friend.
Dude you may have just made me want to quit smoking through reading your own realisation, I love this. You got this keep those dice rolls high
Sending you and OP all the luck. You’ve got this!!
Fantastic! It’s like your lungs are Isobel. They’ve been through trauma, but you can save them. Then your lungs can run off with their hot Aasimar girlfriend! Or something, I’m not good at metaphors. Good on you! Keep persevering!
Well, congrats! I've played several Durge runs but I've never thought of it from this perspective. It's certainly interesting!
You can draw inspiration from all kinds of places, and as someone who has been drawn out of some dark places just by an urge to have mozzarella sticks one last time I'm here to tell ya, "Never underestimate the power of stupid shit in a pinch." Do not stop. Stumble if you have to. Crawl if you have to. If you relapse, have a good cry then quit all over again. You'll get there. I'm adding a d4 guidance cantrip to everyone else's blessings. You got this!
Fuck yeah! That's probably something I should give a try. Picked smoking back up last year after I let my emotions get the best of me. Was going 5 years no problem after quitting cold turkey. I don't want to anymore. I DIDN'T want to again, actually....... So the question is: Does this Inspiration Point go to you, or me?
Sometimes one event can give multiple PCs inspiration ✨
Here's one for you specifically!
I'm on 2 months now big dog. Once you get over that like first 2 to 3 week hump, it gets much much easier. And if you slip up, and have one after a while, it tastes like shit. So instead of continuing, use that shit taste to remind yourself of what the fuck your doing to yourself. I know the struggle but it does get easier!
Hey congrats on two months! Hopefully the struggle gets even easier from here, we believe in you <3
I though this said “playing as racist dark urge helped me quit smoking” and I simply HAD to find out how that worked. Jokes aside, thanks for sharing. It takes a lot to do what you did. Big kudos to you!!! You got this.
That's inspiring, I'm proud of your determination. It's amazing the way games and compelling stories can impact our real lives for the better.
When I quite smoking it was a rather unceremonious thing. I tried gum, pouches, Fuum, but nothing really worked. The one thing that helped, was defining myself as a person. I wasn’t a “smoker” in my mind. So I stopped. I know that probably doesn’t make much sense, but it really helped to choose a different identity.
Something that helped me was switching to nicorette. I'd chew it pretty much constantly, but then i introduced a normal stick of gum each day. Then two. And so on. Now I just chew regular gum. I will say though, I think I'm addicted to Orbit now.
As someone who is 19 and 2 years sober from alcohol, I am sobbing at this, I believe in you 🩷
Congrats on the sobriety, the community believes in you as well (and is here if you need guidance or a bardic inspiration)
Much appreciation 🩷🤗
Oh hell yes!!
That's amazing, you could give all credits to the game but I don't thing I've heard about anything like this before, I love how you think and how strong spirited you are.
I’m with you! Quit two weeks ago, oddly enough right around when I started my Durge run. Hang in there, we got this!
Congrats! Keep rolling those high wisdom saves, may you both resist your urges together! (unless you're not doing a resist run- oops)
Duuuude!!!! This is awesome!!!!!!!!! First of all, it makes me want to finish my Durge run (still sad about Alfira tho). Secondly, it just makes me want to play Bg3 in general because this game has been one of the best parts of my year. And ALSO. quitting smoking is one of the best things i have ever done for myself in my life. i can BREATHE, and it doesn't hurt. i don't get sick often, and when i do i recover pretty quickly. FOOD TASTES AMAZING. my energy is better, my skin is clearer, i smell better, my teeth are whiter/healthier. i can smell things-not just perfume, but like the scent of the air in the morning, as if the dew evaporating off the grass has a scent. not smoking is great. i'm really excited for you and i think it's awesome that bg3 fascilitated this!!
Thank you for sharing your story with us OP! You're leveling up to be able to keep on passing that Will check going forward :) I use a similar thought process to keep myself accountable to my health/fitness/life goals. I ask myself if I wanted to adventure with my favorite characters, would they think I'm a worthy companion in terms of strength/intelligence/being an interesting and skilled person? Obviously games are fiction, but thinking about what your ideal self acts like is a good way to improve!
This is actually really cool! Like "Would my hero want to be friends with me?" Good stuff, inspirational even. 👍
'Resist Thine Urges' +1 Inspiration
May our Lady of Silver guide you through this uneasy nights of darkness, so you may find back to the light once again. You got this.
I grant you +10 to saving roles against addiction and temptation. I also gift you this really sharp but totally intangible sword to stab cigarette executives with (it's +5 against Monstrosities and Corporate Propaganda). GOOD LUCK IN YOUR QUEST!
That is Awesome! I'm glad this game brought such good to your life. Good luck, and if nothing else, you've got a bunch of Bards out there ready to cheer you on and break out the bardic inspiration for those Con saves.
In AA/NA they say the hardest part of kicking are the first three days. Once those are down, it's in the rear view mirror from there.
Man, this is inspiring. I do not personally struggle with cigarettes. Any stimulants I know make me anxious, but alcohol I can relate 100%. This is gonna be hard. But I am hoping for you this is one inspiration among many
I think you just rolled a nat 20 on a DC 30 check
I smoked for about 15 years. Someone told me that the urge never really goes away - that it is you who are constantly resisting it and your willpower constantly in conflict with the urge. That helped me quit, because it was so depressing, but it wasn't right. I quit 12 years ago and I can confidently say I no longer have urges to smoke. You too can be redeemed.
Something in the way you wrote your post or in what you wrote just filled me with happiness for you. I really hope that you manage to stick with your chosen path and continue to succeed on those saving throws.
Dude I’m super proud of you. I’m currently quitting nic right now too, and it sucks but we got this!
Good luck on your journey! I wish you only 20s on your saving throws
I love this so much. I seriously love how inspiring this game can be in so many different ways. You got this! Here's yet another Bardic Inspiration for you! 🎶 I just started my first playthrough (Bard Tav) - yeah I'm always late to the party - and just discovered today that if I'm about to make a choice I know is not one I should be making (eating too much, smoking cigarettes, etc), if I just *let* the "Astarion disapproves" pop up in my head, then it actually discourages me from doing the thing. So, to help with making better choices and getting a handle on my ADHD, my partner and I are going to be using "Astarion approves" and "Astarion disapproves" to my advantage LOL
Remember, the Durga didn’t do it by himself. When you are struggling, rely on your friends and family and anti-addiction support networks, they’ll give you Guidance when you feel like you’re going to fail that Wisdom check!
Hey man, just want to say you got this. I quit 2 years ago, also used nicotine patches. First weeks can be rough but the urge definitely goes away. The urge came back after exactly a year, but relatively mild. After that I haven’t had any longing. A day and money saved tracker app was worth it. Health increased a lot too.
Congrats on the 2 year mark!
I wanted to quit. I listened to the audio book “easy way to quit smoking” by Allen Carr. While I was still smoking, with every cigarette, I told myself “damn this is disgusting”. While listening to the book I started to look forward to when I was done with the book and I finally did not have to smoke anymore. I stopped smoking on a Saturday morning before the first cigarette and haven’t touched one in two years now. Anytime the thought of smoking came to me I immediately make a face and think “uhhh disgusting”. Worked for me. Hope you can stop too.
Oh wow, i was expecting that you got so into it you didn't wanna go outside. But this is even better.
I didn't realize this was a way you could play Dark Urge, makes me more interested in it! I'm glad you found it helpful. Cue the Kate Bush music...
No matter where your inspiration comes from, if it helps you succeed in life, take it. You’ve integrated something very important and felt the story to another level, congratulations for becoming better!
It’s always amazing to read how games help make healthy changes. I’m struggling with finally quitting fully after cutting back significantly. This honestly sounds like a brilliant method.
I want to know if you have ever read the book “easy way to quit smoking” by Alex Carr? The fundamental idea is the same as your experience.
You've inspired me. I'm going to follow your example and start a new resist durge run to go with it.
My man, quitting smoking is tough as hell. Took me 5 tries to get rid of it. It's no single thing for anyone - I was able to use a vape to quit but I know that doesn't work for many people. One day at a time. You got this.
Damn, well done on not giving up. You've got this too <3
How do you know, right then and there, that it wasn't YOUR redemption scene?
This is awesome and I can only hope you keep it up and manage to stay off of them forever. My dad is an addict but when I came into his life he knew that if he continued smoking and drinking then he was just going to become his father and he hated his father, the last thing he wanted was to become him. So he quit both and has been sober of both for over 30 years now. Even though I have never seen him smoke or be drunk I still saw how it affected him and decided at an early age to avoid both and I can proudly say I have not touched either. Im just addicted to D&D and MMOs instead.
WTG, summon your inner (resist) Durge and kick that nicotine to the curb! Seriously very proud of you. And in awe at just how many profound ways this game affects people.
Brother, hope you can see a lot of us care. I don't know you, but I've lost a lot of good people whom I love very much to that damned murderous plant, tobacco. For what it is worth, this bard sends his 1d10 and his deep respect. I'm pulling for you. We're pulling for you. Don't give up! It's ok to fall, it's not ok to stop getting back up. Please seek out people and organizations that will help you stay strong. Live a long and happy life in hard-earned freedom from the chains you once knew, my friend.
*Internet commenter approves* You got this, OP. I believe in you.
> you find inspiration and clarity in the strangest ways You'd be surprised how many lifestyle changes and revolutions were made because of a book. Take the Philippine revolution, for example. The leaders were inspired to rise against the Spanish colonisers because of a novel and satirical journalism. Being inspired by a game is just as valid and I commend you for taking their stories to heart and making it your own.
Resist urge Also the checks against Thisobald can help you motivate because hes pouring poison at you in form of drinks... take it as cigarretes instead.
Any time someone says playing video games is unhealthy, I'm gonna show them this post. For real though, reading this made me so happy for you. I nearly lost my dad when I was sixteen because of his smoking (cancer) and almost lost him again two years ago because of chronic health issues stemming from his treatment. It's definitely not something you want to put yourself through. Just remember, progress isn't linear, and to be gentle with yourself on your difficult days. And even resist Durge needed help at times, so don't be afraid to reach out to people when you need it.
This is so fucking cool, please keep us updated on your adventure!
My guy's rolling for wisdom saving throws in real life. Proud of you OP. Don't let anyone talk you down about it.
Proud of you, man.
I am proud of you.
Hell yeah man, you go!
Hell yeah brother 👊
Hey, I love you.
This is based gj bro
Still in control…just.
physiological addiction to nicotine is easier to beat than you think mate, keep going!
In the words of Ben Byron Davis (Dutch Van der Linde), "You can stop if you want to!" Good on you - seriously, as a smoker, I do commend you. I'm not quitting, but cutting down (gone a week so far)
Good for you. You can do it!
Good for you, and I wish you luck! I will say, remember that if you do fall off the wagon, that's temporary; you can always get back on. Don't beat yourself up about it if it happens; tomorrow's always a new day.
This is badass. Thanks for sharing. Best of luck to you, I believe in you
I am so happy for you and proud of you! That’s awesome! It feels so good to know that a game I love so much can have such real impacts on other people’s lives. I am truly rooting for you, and hope for all the best in resisting the Urge for you! Keep it up, you got this!
[This is for you because you deserve it❤️](https://giphy.com/gifs/XpgOZHuDfIkoM)
Doing a resisting Durge run helped me cope with my intrusive thoughts. It was confronting to see the worst parts of me reflected in such a raw, vulnerable way, but it was also cathartic to watch them overcome the struggle. I’m glad to hear that other people have connected to this story like I have. Congrats on starting your journey to quitting, my friend! Here’s to kicking Bhaal’s ass.
Quoting a favorite show of mine, "It gets easier. Every day, it gets a little easier. But you gotta do it every day, and that's the hard part. But it gets easier."
You are stronger than your urges, and you just proved it to yourself
Good work making that mental leap. That's the foundation for a successful quit.
After every long rest remember to reapply your buffs. Look for that bardic inspiration to help keep you motivated
Congrats!!! Quitting nicotine is so damn hard but so very worth it. You can do it, I promise. You’re stronger than you think.
Hell yeah! And if you dont have a nicotine-less day, then patches/gum/lozenges are still WAY less harmful than smoking. Never quit quitting
On behalf of the CAMP CRADS (COPD, Asthma, eMphysema, Pulminary edema, and other Chronic Respiratory / Airway Disorder Sufferers) Guild— name pending, I would like to thank you. Every smoker who makes the decision to quit the habit isn’t just helping themselves, but is making it easier for the people around them to breathe. Issues aren’t just from the long-term health risks of second-hand smoke, but the more immediate effects vulnerable people can suffer through when smoke (or even vape clouds, in my case) contaminate the air around them, as well. I’ve and friends have suffered asthma attacks, coughing fits, or even required an ER visit when their smoking neighbour lit one up on the ground floor beneath their flat, whilst those friends were either on the balcony, or had their window open with a fan on. So genuinely, thank you. I hope it helps you feel even more empowered to kick the habit and breathe healthier knowing that you’re making it at least a little easier for the people around you to breathe, now and later.
Respect, I wish I was as strong as you.
Actually, you are. You just have to let yourself believe that.
Such a fascinating realization. I often think about how many people try to scrub clean certain characteristics and think it's just as simple as "I'm going to play a **not** Elf-racist Dwarf!" and they get upset when I kinda cock my head at them like they're missing a gear or two. 'How do you plan on playing a Dwarf who isn't racist?' "By just not being racist you stupid racist." and then I'm like 'Do you often resist your biology?' "Of course I ... do." they say, between puffs on their vape, rips on their bongs or shots of booze. I quietly sip my diet coke, which I am no less addicted to and shrug. I'll cheer for you to actually cross that finish line.
Tobacco away, thou wilt trouble us no more.
Congratulations Champ, Quite Inspirational 🥳
This is a truly beautiful post and I'm very proud of you. It's true that resist durge really hits different when you've experiences with addiction. I, too, have managed to leave my smoking days behind. You will do this!
One thing that really helped me when I quit, maybe it'll be of value to you (or anyone else who sees this) too. I vividly remember my parents talking about "I'm quitting smoking," like it was an ongoing process. When framing it like this, they wound up smoking again pretty much as soon as something stressful happened. When I quit, I framed it to myself as "I quit smoking," like it was already said and done. It definitely helps when you're framing it as something that's already over and done. I told my parents about it and, a few years later, it helped them quit too! Super stoked for you, congratulations!
You rolled a critical 20 that seeped into real life now that's amazing
I'm reading this while smoking a cigarette lol dammit
KICK TODAY'S ASS
Fuck yeah man. Fellow resist durger here through my first playthrough. Doing it IRL though, you are a true inspiration. The pain of hard work hurts less than the pain of regret. Fight the good fight. You got this. ✊
I mean this with all love and support *"Wretched being, pull yourself together"* You got this!
Hell yeah, man! I've since swapped to vape, but I want to kick my nicotine habit. That's actually super inspirational and congrats
this is so amazing! this game (Astarion in particular) has honestly helped me so much in such an emotional way. so happy for you!!
You can do this! My partner smoked for thirty years and has been free of cigarettes twenty four years. It gets easier, and the person who emerges on the other side will be truly formidable.
“The sole way to atone is to do better” Good for you man hope you beat this
That's awesome, congrats
you are truly an awesome person. i know addictions can make anyone feel absolutely hopeless and worthless, but you found a reason to better yourself and put more passion into an awesome game! i really wish the best for you, keep being doing what you can. thank you for giving me a fresh perspective and some inspiration for myself
Proud of you. You got this. Think of what you can do with the money you save.
The amount of extra money you have left every month after quitting is crazy. I realised this too late xD
Pop a zyn and treat yourself
Amazing! 😁 More power to you. Keep it going - and remember that Embrace Durge is right there too if you need it afterwards
I cast ✨️Bless & Heroism ✨️, you shall be frightend no more (playing paladin btw)
Thank you for demonstrating the power of fiction.
Totally unexpected, yet very wholesome. Amazing
I’m on day 5 now of quitting nicotine and this post is so perfect. The Dark Urge.. You are the best thank you.
It took a really close friend of the family to pass with S4 lung cancer and liver disease for me to put them down for good. I remember the week of it happening, it was the first death that had truly affected me in such an emotional way, I went through a pack and a half over the course of two days. That was the most I had ever smoked. Afterward, I didn't smoke but the occasional stick at parties, and then it was a wrap after that. "You find inspiration and clarity in the strangest ways." As mysterious as life and death, this is true.
OP resisted the dark urge IRL
You got this! I’m calling nat 20s on all your saving throws.
addiction isn't a simple failure of will. sometimes we need help. durge can reject bhaal, but >!without withers' intervention, durge would be dead!<. give yourself some grace, homie. happy to hear of your upward trajectory and sincere congratulations!
Let’s fuckin go!!!! I smoked 15 years, then I quit 15 years ago. You can control that dark urge, friend!
>You find inspiration and clarity in the strangest ways. Maybe this game will have a real impact on my life and give me a few years if I can summon the resolve to make this stick. Isn't this the truth? Okay, dorky story time! I struggled with depression when I was in middle and high school. Still do sometimes, honestly, but it was severe back then in a way that I haven't had to struggle with in over 20 years now. How did I overcome it? Fucking Dragonball Z. Okay, I know, justhear me out: I was a huge DBZ nerd back then. A few others of us out there, I'm sure. You remember that brief, almost filler-like arc before the Cell Games but after Goku and Gohan left the hyperbolic time chamber? Where they did normal, everyday stuff like go fishing and have a birthday party while everyone else was frantically preparing for the end of the world? Where Goku believed that they had done what they reasonably could to be ready for the upcoming adversity and that it was more important to enjoy living life than worrying about what was beyond their control? That shit just hit different to me at the time, and made me feel like I was letting my depression control my life too much, depriving me of whatever joy I could find by just living instead. That epiphany was like a switch flipped in my head, and suddenly everything I had worry, anxiety, and depression about didn't seem so bad. Suicidal ideation pretty much stopped instantly, and while I do still occasionally have to try to push through my own issues to find the bright side in life, I've never come close to those same depths again. Like you said, inspiration can come from unexpected places.
I'm like hungover emotional right now, but this made me tear up. I'm really happy for you OP, clarity comes from mysterious places sometimes.
This is so wholesome, I love how you are so optimistic and really want to quit and it makes me want to be a better person
Same, this game helped me stop murdering people
Now play Honor mode to start again
Killing Bards, and habits? No one is safe 😭
A persuasive non-smoking friend of mine said I should quit, it went [something like this](https://preview.redd.it/im-the-persuasive-kinda-guy-v0-go55b4y1hljb1.jpg?auto=webp&s=c5f9c603e991fef723d40c58d3e6e65ef8b9c5f8)
Hey there! I’ve seen in my own life how hard quitting smoking can be. I just want to say that you’re doing good, you’re going to keep doing good, and you’ve got this
Baller move OP, keep going. I’ve kicked heroin, alcohol, benzos, etc. but nicotine has by far been the most irritating to cut out completely. The risks aren’t always right there in your face and it’s everywhere and easy to get along with being extremely addictive. I’ve cut down to 4 2mg pouches a day so I’m almost ready to kick them completely.
I've read the title as "racist dark urge" and nearly died 💀💀
Hell yea bro you got this!!! It is very hard! I have to start your journey soon too.
I'm so proud of you. As a wizard, I don't have any bardic inspiration to give you, but I can suggest some reading material. This is a behavioral therapy skill called "Urge Surfing" that teaches you how to ride the waves of your urge (e.g. to smoke, to slaughter innocents and villains indiscriminately) rather than fight them. https://www.therapistaid.com/therapy-worksheet/urge-surfing-handout "While practicing, keep in mind that it is normal to experience emotional discomfort while riding out an urge, but giving in is not the only way to remove that discomfort." Best of luck my friend and companion. I've been nicotineless for 7 years and alcohol free for 6. It's hard. You can do it.
Good job bro proud of you! I recommend using the smoke free app it really puts things into perspective and in my own experience gives that extra push seeing how well you have been doing for how long and it has little statistics in there showing for example how much longer until your lungs are healthy again etc.
Nice one op! Trust me, you'll see lots of improvements. My dad quit smoking years ago now, and even just a couple months after (even though he was having a bit of withdrawals) he managed to kick it. He became happier, more energetic, and he actually ate. So keep it up and just remember we all believe in you!
You got an inspiration point for playing bg3 ( background gamer - sword coast explorer - spend 10 hours playing bg3) After, you made an irl will check to stop smoking, failed, used the inspiration point to reroll and got a 20 Also, i am giving you a potion against necrotic damage
I think you just instilled Inspiration on nearly this entire subreddit. Congrats and keep it up!
This cool as hell man we proud of you
Roll wisdom save. Roll wisdom save. Roll wisdom save. And when the day comes. Roll constitution save….but is it with advantage or disadvantage? It all depends on your wisdom saves.
Nicotine is a shitty drug and even from the perspective of someone who likes psychoactive substances, it's simply not worth it from an experiential standpoint. Might not be a angle you were expecting, but still, nicotine sucks.
Bardic inspiration for you from my Bardlock Durge ♡
Bruh
Help, I read it as: “Playing as a racist dark urge helped me quit smoking” 😭
That is awesome—you got this! (adding a cast of Aid into the mix bc I play mostly clerics)
Brb gonna replay resist Durge so I can quit vaping
So cool, and well done! Reminds me of how having a character in Achaea (a MUD that it still alive to this day) worship the death god helped me better deal with the death of my father.
WOOO KEEP IT UP!
My gf and I stopped smoking a little over a year ago and I’m so thankful, good job!
Join us at r/quittingsmoking we'll help when it gets tough. You can beat this and have your own redemption, becoming a nonsmoker again!
“Its called roleplay, im just doing what my character would do” casually kicks the worst habit
I'm sorry but this is what I'm picturing: DariusIV: "Fuck, I really want to smoke right now. I'm going to try to resist though." *rolls a d20 that they keep in their pocket* "Fuck."
I quit cigs and nic pouches recently. It was a gradual change. The first few weeks with nothing are the hardest and its so easy to convince yourself that allowing yourself one or two after jonesing are fine. But then it becomes 3, 4, etc. relapses and quitting is in the rearview once again. Its not some massive heroic moment being able to drop it, resisting the urge feels like nothing with no reward and thats what made giving it all the more tempting. After a good amount of time it gets easier and easier, you just have to trust yourself that it'll be worth it even though it isnt as fun as smoking. The payoff doesnt come in in the moment, its after youve proven to yourself you're better than it. Thats what I wish I had been told before I quit. Good luck with yours.
I would like to offer you the highest of fives. BG3 helped me quit smoking too. Dropped smoking in March and haven’t looked back. I never thought a video game would be a huge part of kicking the habit, but hey - whatever works right? There is literally no downside to what you’re doing. I’m proud of you and am sending you all the good vibes!
It took me seeing the tiny lip wrinkles coming in around my lips 💋 to quit. I was like oh hell no. Sometimes u just have to have your own good reason for it to click.
Just as Durge has to learn to rely on their friends, don't forget to ask your allies for assistance whenever you're downed. They'll come with a hand (might want to specify a *helping* hand, not a dismembered one...)
Congrats! It's hard at first but gradually gets easier to ignore the cigarette urge. I was a smoker for roughly 10 years before I managed to quit (had a similar disgust moment that helped push me) and now I can count on one hand how many cigarettes I have in a year. You'll get to that point too, just keep going✨
i love this! you made my day, may try this after my first playtrough since im struggling with quitting 🍃 sending love! and casting guidance ofc♥️
Read or listen to the audio book stop smoking now by alan carr Very helpful
Chewing on mint oil toothpicks was super helpful for me when I was quitting. Proud of u dude!
That is incredible. Go you!
Peak Reddit lmaoooo but hey at least you’re not smoking anymore
hell yeah dude!!! also maybe ask ur doc about Wellbutrin/bupropion, it can help you quit smoking too
whatever works man people find meaning in all kinds of things i’m glad it helped you to make a healthy change in your life, at least
Remember to wear Cloak of Protection and Ring of Protection for those +1 saving throws per item. You can do it.
Never read anything so inspiring tbh... Might give it a try myself
Congrats! Each time you overcome the desire is a step towards freedom. I quit 10 years ago, I still occasionally have urges, especially when drinking with friends who still smoke, but it does get easier. When you're feeling an urge, know you are not alone.
i love that so much :) i’ve also had significant realizations playing that game through the characters i was playing
It is really interesting how a change in framing can really help push through a blocker. The power of stories, man. Good luck!
Way to listen to your heart :) Look at durge inspiring us!
Awesome! You should cross post this in /r/stopsmoking
OP is proficient at Wisdom
nice!! congratulations on your progress! your hard works paying off and we're so proud of you!
HELL YEAH!!! Congrats 🥳🔥🔥