Journey to the Isle of Freedom

The Journals of Captain Cooke chronicle a long and sometimes incredulous journey. The seas were not always calm. The people who inhabited the islands he documents were not always friendly. Early in his travels, Cooke thought he was saving the savages by bringing civilization to their lands. Later he was torn with conflicting thoughts because he could see that civilization brought disease, death, and corrupted the natives. If he had been less intrusive or able to supervise the movement to civilization, it might have been different. His intentions were good, but the results were questionable.


I made a similar decision on my journey to freedom from the Nicodemon. I quit smoking several years ago. Smoking cessation is clearly a positive change. I had introduced a different way of living. I was diligent in this lifestyle change in the beginning. After a while, though, I forgot to nurture the journey. I thought it was over. After 5 years and 23 days, I started smoking again. I was depressed and stressed and thought “just one” would calm my nerves. It did not. I know now that this type of lifestyle change needs continuous supervision and nurturing.

My journey has been fraught with stormy seas for the last 25 months. I became even more depressed because I could not quit smoking. As a result, I smoked more. I can see a clearing on the horizon now. And there, just ahead, is a new island – The Isle of Freedom. I will reach The Isle of Freedom on January 24. I anticipated a rocky landing. My ship may be damaged in the landing. I will not let these little problems stop me from assimilating to the lifestyle of the island. I will find the darkest cave where the Nicodemon lives and slay that beast.

This is a positive decision! This is a positive lifestyle change, and there will be no regrets this time. This journey will end on calm seas!