Mom Loses It Over Smoker's Refusal To Let Her Kid Pet Dog While Smoking
Smoking is a complex and often contentious issue. On one hand, it's a personal choice that adults make, and many smokers argue that it's a vital part of their daily routine and stress relief.
On the other hand, smoking poses significant health risks, not just for the smoker but also for those around them who are exposed to secondhand smoke. Secondhand smoke can be particularly hazardous for children, whose lungs are still developing and are more vulnerable to damage.
Many public places have implemented strict no-smoking policies to protect people from the dangers of secondhand smoke. Some smokers take steps to minimize their impact on others, such as smoking in designated areas or using pocket ashtrays.
The OP is a considerate smoker who takes great care to avoid exposing others to secondhand smoke. Whether waiting for the bus or walking in public, OP goes out of his way to minimize the impact of his habit on those around him.
OP's encounter with a young boy and his mother while walking his dog turned into a heated confrontation. Despite the OP's polite explanation for not wanting the child near while he smoked, the mother took offense and unleashed a torrent of anger.
The situation escalated when OP made a comment that the mother perceived as judgmental, leading to a loud and intense exchange. OP's actions have been questioned by his fiancée, leaving him wondering if he overstepped.
Read the full story below and decide for yourself.
The OP writes...
"sorry man, i'm smoking right now so not the best time"
The OP should have just walked away
OP has offered the following explanation for why they think they might be the AH:
I think I may be the AH since I really could have easily just not have said I said to the mom and just walked away after denying the kid access to my dog. but at the same time, I feel like it needed to be said if this woman really does smoke around her child all the time, cigarette smoke is pretty harmful (and I really should drop the habit myself - easier said than done, and plus I kinda am still in the phase where I just enjoy smoking, I realize this may make me a hypocrite)
so wanted to know if I really was TA? my fiancee seems to think so.
Let's head into the comments section and find out what other Redditors have to say about the story
The OP has no moral high ground
It's nice the OP is considerate with his smoking
The OP didn't even have to justify it
The OP has a good head on his shoulders
The OP gave the kid his reasons
She is increasing her child's odd of cancer
It's really not that big of a deal
OP's encounter with the mother and her child highlights the complications of managing personal habits in public spaces. While OP's intentions were to minimize harm, his comment about the mother's parenting was perceived as judgmental.
OP's fiancée's comment about being rude highlights the importance of choosing words carefully in tense situations. As attitudes towards smoking continue to evolve, it's essential to consider the potential consequences of smoking and the importance of respecting the health and limits of those around us.
Let's know your thoughts about this story in the comment section.
Share this article:
