Something “Old” – Something “New”
Editorial Perspective
Wikipedia states: ”The history of smoking dates back to as early as 5,000 B.C.” The Germans have a word for harmful practices that have a long history – such as smoking. The word is genussmittel which means “necessary means of enjoyment.” We are also aware that problems with alcohol were known in the time of Noah (Genesis 9:20-28).
According to Infoplease (an on-line resource published by Pearson Education), drug addiction and drug abuse dates back to the use in Egypt of narcotics from 4,000 B.C. and “medicinal” use of marijuana in China dating to 2737 B.C. However, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the addictive substances in plants (such as morphine and cocaine) were extracted. These were unregulated and freely prescribed by physicians, sold by traveling salesmen, in drugstores and through the mail.
A “new” potentially addictive phenomenon is professional referred to as “Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response” (ASMR). People who find videos of activities associated with whispering, crinkling paper, folding towels, hair cuts, doctor’s visits and guided imagery to be soothing and sleep inducing are commonly referred to as “tingleheads.” The name is derived from the sensation of feeling a “headtingle” or “brain tingle.” Perhaps in a future issue, we can have a feature article on this topic.
Whether an “old” or a “new” addiction the same principles and practices which prevent or ameliorate addiction and its harmful impact mentioned by Dr. Duane McBride in his well-written article in this issue of the Journey to Life will prove to be valuable source of insight and help.
My hope is that you will be aware of your (whether “old” or “new”) obsessive thinking, compulsive and addictive behaviors. With that awareness, I encourage you to find recovery help and/or continue recovering from the addictive, harmful habits that keep you from fully developing the character of Christ in your life.
Ray Nelson, MDiv, MSPH
adventistrecovery@gmail.com