Stogie Commentary: A New New Year’s Tradition
29 Dec 2009
The other day a workman came by to do some adjustments on a project that had been previously installed at my house. He was here for only a few minutes, and I puzzled over what to do. A tip didn’t seem exactly appropriate for the small job, but something seemed in order.
As he was packing up, I went to my humidor, grabbed a stick and dropped it in my pocket. Before he got to the door, I asked whether he ever smoked cigars.
“Sometimes,†he replied. “Great,†I said. “I think you’ll enjoy this one.†I pulled the cigar out of my pocket and dropped it in his.
And with that simple act, I decided I have established my own new tradition: New Year’s cigars. For the next couple of weeks I’m going to look for opportunities to present someone with a cigar as I wish them Happy New Year.
What better way to spread some cheer and happiness than with a cigar? Oh, I’m sure I’ll run into a tobacco Grinch or two. Honestly, though, I think most people see the gift of a cigar as a friendly gesture. It seems to hearken back to a more civilized time. After all, who ever got in a fight after one too many cigars?
So, may I invite you to join me in giving the gift of cigars? Maybe we can make it a lasting New Year’s ritual.
photo credit: Stogie Guys
I used to do this all the time when I started smoking cigars and you know what I got? Nothing, except extra money spent on cigars for other people. Does that make me grinchy that I don't do it anymore? If someone asks for one I am more than willing to oblige. But handing them out willy nilly? Not until I own my own cigar store and have backstock to spare.
George,
That is an excellent idea. I enjoy cigars and, as a result, derive enjoyment from introducing others to good cigars. I have given out many cigars over the years for all manner of events, but never handed any out for the New Year. I now will.
Cheers, and Happy New Year.
i have been handing out cigars for years. the joy is very rewarding. unlike rusty i don't give expecting a return but to each their own
Very nice. I think I might try that as well. At our Yankee Swap, I was surprised how coveted was my humi + sampler, given the preponderance of ladies present and the general pooh-poohing pc-ness of stogie life…
George – Don't under estimate the power of what you're doing. My love affair with cigars began by being the recipient of just such a gift. This is a great way to "evangelize" the masses. If each of us introduced cigars to just a few neophytes each year, the world would be a better place. It is good for the industry, our hobby, and our own constitution.
Just found your web site, great site, just starting to read all your cigar ''stuff'', really find it to be very informative,I will be ''on'' this site from now on, thanks guy's for doing this,and just like you always say ''there's nothing like a tight ash''.