Sugar: The Legalized Drug

I openly confess my weakness: I have an undeniable fondness for sweets. Cake, cookies, and ice cream are my Achilles' heel.

I vividly remember the first time I attempted to sever ties with the three white sins: sugar, flour, and salt. This reminiscence takes me back roughly 15 years. Seated in the kitchen with my mother, she noted something that left an impression. According to her, I had been opening the refrigerator a staggering 10 times in a mere 10 minutes. Although I still maintain a slightly different recollection, her point hit home - I was struggling with withdrawal.

While this journey represents my battle to relinquish all three culprits, I want to focus on my encounter with sugar, the most formidable of them all ... for me. However, what comes next might evoke a chuckle or two. Albeit with a touch of embarrassment, I will continue sharing. After my fridge-opening exchange, I transitioned to sitting cross-legged on the floor, indulging in one of my idiosyncrasies - stretching. For me, stretching is akin to mediation, it's my calming ritual. What unfolded next wasn't part of my regular routine, though. As my mother and I delved into memories of my childhood escapades in the snow, I reclined and began creating snow angels on the floor. Amidst my silly snow play, my mother burst into laughter with a shake of her head, saying, "And this is just the beginning." While my struggles persisted, this episode underscored a crucial lesson - quitting cold turkey wasn't the wisest approach.

Instead, I devised a strategy that yielded success. I listed every sugary treat I savored and pinpointed where I purchased them. Gradually, I relinquished each treat, one-by-one. Admittedly, it was a taxing endeavor, but the rewards were immeasurable.

Today, if I go to the mall, which is rare for me, I might occasionally treat myself to a slice of Cheesecake Factory's red velvet cheesecake. Yet, the days of purchasing an entire cake and devouring it within a week are a distant memory. The journey has indeed been transformative, and looking back, I am grateful for my mother's support.