It's More Than Smoking a Pipe.

[quincy]

I know that I'm a walking contradiction. I'm 32, covered in tattoos, a Presbyterian Minister, and father of four. I can listen to Punk rock and rap music by my heart is in Bluegrass and Classical. I think part of it is that I've never really fit in anywhere in my life and I've always found it hard to really relate and connect to most people. They've started asking me what it is about the pipe that I like so much. I can't put it in to words. I can't give a concise answer. All I really can do is tell them stories about days like today and hope they can somehow understand that smoking a pipe isn't just smoking a pipe.
I went to my B&M before stopping off at a friends house for a smoke session and was greeted with warm smiles and friendly handshakes with a slap on the back. Jerry the Wizard got a bunch of new tins in due to finding a new distributor, making my choices hard. We looked at all the new stuff and compared. I went back and forth and finally settled. We 'bs'ed about pipes and the conversation turned to religion (occupational hazard that I love) and then I noticed I was running late. Jerry popped a tin, threw some of it in a bag, insisted I try it, and sent me on my way with my sample and purchase in hand. I got to my friend's house a few minutes late, but he was in his garage all ready for the afternoon. He's a pipe maker (a good one in my opinion) and he walked me through the process of how to simply and affordably make a pipe for myself, took me downstairs, threw some tobacco in my pipe, and we looked at his pipes, again, as we do every time I'm over because he has an amazing collection. I saw some absolutely amazing artistry by people like Lee Von Erck and Tim West as well as others (all buddies of his). We went upstairs and smoked for about two hours talking about everything. He then threw me a Peterson he didn't like because it has a "p-lip", I threw him some cash, and we parted ways. Everyone happy.
I can't explain to people adequately the deep satisfaction to my soul, my intellect, and my life I get from smoking a pipe. This forum has become a big part of that. I'm sorry for rambling, but I just needed to share that it's more than just smoking to me and I think to many of us. It's a deep abiding love and longing that gets satisfied by being a pipe smoker. It truly helps bring satisfaction to my soul and I hope it does to you too. Thanks for being a part of this forum and part of my life through it.

 

[bigboi]

Quincy I can definitely Identify with you. I too am a deacon at my church, used to be a youth Minister. I am covered in tats listen to metal, rap, bluegrass and plain good ol' Rock'n'Roll. There is a great multitude of many fine theologians that smoked a pipe. Most notably in recent history C.S. Lewis. There is a deep satisfaction as you described it with smoking pipes, it slows you down, asks you to think. The fellowship associated with it awesome even if you do not agree with someone Theologically. I posted in another thread that my church actually has a weekly cigar and pipe night where we fellowship, discuss life and religion. If you are ever in Washington State north of Seattle, PM me and I would happily have a pipe with you.

 

[nsfisher]

Takes all kinds mate. Glad you had an awesome day.

I am the only one on my crew of 23 at work who smokes a pipe. The guys accept it in the "smoke shack", and I think some of them even like it. One guy, the other day, said "Your bringing some class to the crew".

 

[soggycitybob]

Thanks, Quincy and Justin. I am in agreement that there is something ineffable about pipe smoking. The ritual, process, meditation, and social facets are all just part of the brilliance of this simple act. I took up a pipe about 2003 for the first time. I let it go for many reasons including job, family, etc. But recently a new smoke shop opened close by, so I stopped in for a pouch of Prince Albert & Captain Black Cherry, and retrieved my ol' briar from its dormancy. Needless to say even after many years the ritual and process was easy to pick up (just like riding a bike), as well as the enjoyment and fulfillment. I'm now looking for the local pipe club and hope to stop in for the social time once in a while. There's something about pipe smokers that always make one feel welcome.
Keep on enjoying!

 

[tjameson]

Pipe smoking is a way of life or many times a completion of a certain lifestyle/personality. Not everyone can be or wants to be patient as is required with a pipe. Not everyone wants to be different from the other smokers or non smokers. To me the pipe is experiential and transformational, in that through the experience of smoking my mind is transported elsewhere and the only thing grounding me is the "process" and flavor of smoking my pipe.

 

[lucky695]

I know that I'm a walking contradiction. I'm 32, covered in tattoos, a Presbyterian Minister, and father of four

People have ideas of what someone should or shouldn't be based on appearances, never giving themselves the opportunity to experience some of the finest people on the planet.

I am 42, I grew up with my grandparents and great grandfather. (this is where I get my love of pipes). This man never had a harsh word, always had a smile, and a contemplative look... Wasn't until I started with a pipe that I figured out that it was the pipe that was his secret to long life(88), and his agreeable disposition.
People will judge, and given your line of work... know who's judgement it is that really matters. In my opinion, it is the fellowship. I speculate that I would enjoy it even more if I knew someone around me that smoked a pipe.

 

[metalheadycigarguy]

Great thread and story. Thanks for sharing.

When I took up pipe smoking I had the idea it was typically for older men; however I learned very quickly that a variety of individuals enjoy the hobby. I was surprised to find other Metalheads enjoy the hobby as well. Which is really great. For me its about creating new friendships, sharing experiences, and relaxing. It hards for some people to understand that but there's definitely more to it then just smoking a pipe.

 

[jah76]

Yeah. I've always kinda of walked my own path never really fitting in. We moved a lot as kids so it was extremely rare to go to the same school 2 years in a row. I've never really cared to be understood, but I like to understand others.
I think that's a big part why I like this forum. I know you guys and ladies are sitting there like me, with a pipe in hand, a book or drink, and a taste of smoke on the tongue. I know your experiencing some of the same things as me. Yet we're completely different people.
This isn't hyperbole, pipe smoking has really made me a better person. More like the person I want to be. It calms me, re-centers me, and makes me think without trying to think. I had an insanely stressful past 2 years. This hobby couldn't have come at a better time.

 

[thesmokindragon]

Agree brother...as others had said...my pipe smoking brings me

peace and if this crazy/fast paced world we need MORE of that ;-)

 

[bobpnm]

A quiet time with the pipe and my thoughts are my daily meditation. Most of the time, when I smoke, I do nothing but smoke and think. It is in those times that I realize how fortunate I am to have the wonderful life I have. I can relate to the poster who said it makes him a better person. I agree with thesmokingdragon. It is a refuge of tranquility and sanity in a world full of neither.

 

[kashmir]

Great post Quincy. Like you, one of the things I like so much about the pipe is that, being a protracted affair, it forces you to stop. And during this cessation of activity, one is afforded ample opportunity to reflect. Some call it mindfullness. Some call it being in the Zone or Zen State. As one tends the bowl, the eyes invariably wander, eventually settling on an object, which then triggers memories and an appreciation develops - a weathering of ideas, if you will. One is then reminded of one's own limited time here, and this brings up a deep sense of thankfulness. I am of the opinion, that the pipe was a gift from the New World AmeriIndians to the conquering Old. And I think this ability of the pipe to literally stop time is the true gift of piping tobacco. Throughout the day I will come back to the pipe and time and again, to relish the opportunity to defy the ceaseless progression of time. Of course time doesn't really stop. But to the pipe smoker it seems to. And that's all that really matters. The turtle beats the hare every time.

 

[redbeard]

Great post, but you will soon find out, if you haven't already, that it didnt happen without pics :rofl:
Just messin with ya.... But seriously 8O

 

[gmwolford]

I just have to say I really enjoyed this thread. So many well stated thoughts, all of which I pretty much agree with. Sitting here in the peace and quiet of a Saturday morning, watching a few YouTube videos and then reading some of these threads with my pipe, gently sipping away, I feel like I among friends, enjoying good conversation and fellowship. A good start to the day I must say!

 

[tennsmoker]

What a wonderful thread this is. It is raining here today in my part of Tennessee. I won't be able to sit on my deck and fill a bowl, but reading these thoughts about pipe smoking has helped to cure my rainy day blues.
Thanks to all.

 

[plateauguy]

Sunshine and work waiting. I don't care who you are, or what you look like, seize the day and enjoy !

 

[numbersix]

I just have to say I really enjoyed this thread. So many well stated thoughts, all of which I pretty much agree with.

+1
Can't think of anything to add - but I enjoyed all of the comments. Carry on. ::

 

[4dotsasieni]

Quincy, that was a great post! Sounds like you had a charmed day.
I think that pipe smoking goes very well with a spiritual nature. I am a Buddhist priest (but I only have one tattoo, that I got in 1964 when I ordained as a monk in Thailand).
There's something about smoking a pipe, holding it, admiring the craftsmanship, being in a relaxed mood, that is very akin to what I experience in meditation.
It's probably not a coincidence that there are several men (and women?) of various "cloths" that are members of this forum.

 

[chagovatoloco]

I am a misfit as well, tattoos and all. I am a nut job that believes Jesus was Buddha reincarnate... not trying to get in to a religious conversation just saying that my ideas are...... well.... off the main stream. I fly fish, canoe, bicycle to work. Which my co workers think is odd because I work at a hot rod shop and specialize in custom cars. The pipe just seems to make every thing make sense.... I can relate.

 

[cynyr]

jah76:

This isn't hyperbole, pipe smoking has really made me a better person. More like the person I want to be. It calms me, re-centers me, and makes me think without trying to think. I had an insanely stressful past 2 years. This hobby couldn't have come at a better time.

jah, your next drink is on me. I firmly believe that taking up the pipe has made me better to live with.

 

[cigrmaster]

Great post Quincy, thanks for sharing. It is nice to see the younger generation appreciate what the pipe has to offer, it bodes well for the future.