Wow, this is the first time I've seen this thread and it's really opened my eyes! Two years ago, during my last year of college, I started chewing because all of my roommates did and it was a social thing to do while watching hockey or partying. Then shortly after I graduated and moved back home working for my stepdad, I found myself still buying tins. I would still go party on weekends with my friends, but after a couple months of working full-time, I got over the whole party phase and rarely drink now. However, I've been chewing since...not that much (a tin usually lasts me a couple weeks) and it's kind of hard when you play rugby, work construction, and are seeking a career in law enforcement where everyone around me chews. I don't get a buzz anymore like when I first chewed...it does help calm me down when I'm stressed or angry, but I tend to do it most of the time now for stupid reasons (after eating, certain times of the day, etc.). I've quit before for a few weeks, but get a craving or see a friend with it and gave in. My girlfriend is a nurse and gave me a talking to when we first started dating, but she thinks I quit or rarely do it now. I just don't like the secrecy of hiding it from my parents, girlfriend, and other people. Plus my cousin started chewing after hanging out with me and my friends and I feel ashamed about it. I'm mostly paranoid about getting mouth cancer and leaving my girlfriend and family because of something I chose to do that was preventable. I have about 2 half-full tins in my bag right now that I was going to finish and be done...again, but I think I'll just toss them in the garbage now. Thanks for all the stories guys, it really brought things into perspective!
Kyle