In light of my recent post, I figured I should list out ways that smokers can earn my respect and I'm sure the respect of others. Give respect to get respect.

1. If you live in a building that isn't smoke-free (unfortunately for me, that isn't the case but it's in the works by the AOAO), please contain your second-hand smoke. Unless you have a boutique-style building, please refrain from smoking on your balcony. Do understand that second-hand smoke does blow back to other residents' dwellings.
2. If there is a placard that indicates that smoking is not allowed, please do not smoke near that signage. It's amazing how many smokers ignore this signage but it's there for a reason!
3. Please refrain from smoking near buildings as your second-hand smoke can blow in. It's best to avoid the entrances of buildings where people come and go. In fact, it's actually unlawful to do so in Honolulu but unfortunately, as with ignoring placards, some smokers ignore this by-law. No-smoking placards are usually placed in those areas.
4. Please pay attention to the wind and smoke down-wind if there is a stationary group of people, say, waiting for a bus at a bus stop. Honolulu by-laws prohibit smoking near bus stops but if you smoke up-wind, then the second-hand smoke will hit all those people anyway.
   
5. Please pay attention where you blow your smoke. It's very unpleasant when you're directly hit with second-hand smoke.
6. Finally, oh for the love of God, don't litter your butts! This seems to be a very common practice of smokers. I can't comprehend why many feel it is OK to litter their butts -- can't they see the mess they're making on the streets?!

Whenever I see responsible smokers, I have full respect for them. They understand that there are people around them and care about the environment they live in. Unfortunately, responsible smokers seem to be a rarity these days...