I was addicted to nicotine for a few years and switched to vaping to try and quit. That only made my addiction much worse though. I was able to just stop a little over a year ago when my body just kept feeling so gross from it. Honestly, quitting cold turkey was one of the most empowering things i've ever done (way to go past Parker!) I wouldn't wish addiction on anybody, and nicotine is just one of those drugs where the only satisfaction (outside of people who do it socially/to get more work breaks i suppose) is feeding the addiction. I wish there was more marketing on addiction and recovery services, but I don't hate the idea of smoking tobacco entirely. For example, I've heard of Native American tribes who use it as a part of their rituals, and I think that's beautiful.
Honestly, my biggest issue surrounding smoking/addiction is the people who look down on those who are struggling with addiction. It doesn't make you a terrible person to have struggles, and the criminal stigma associated with it is beyond upsetting to me. If you've never had to go through these feelings of being entirely dependent on a substance that only wants to kill you and take your money/time, then I am so happy, but I think it's lame to treat/think of people as human garbage for having a crutch. There's so much merchandise surrounding coffee addiction and coffee lovers, and it's seen as entirely acceptable. It's sad to me that we just pick and choose what substances to demonize people for, but I guess that's just a part of society. There can be terrible consequences for people suffering from addiction as well as for the people around them, but treating it as evil just prevents people from seeking help.
I understand that there a plenty of reasons why people would look down so heavily on those who use specific drugs. For example, they may know someone or have had their lives personally impacted by the consequences of drug addiction. At the same time, I think addiction is the sort of thing that needs lots of support, so I'm passionate about sharing how I feel. Feel free to hate my guts for having smoked or for sympathizing with addiction, and I won't do anything to stop you. I really wish people were more sympathetic though