One where I was able to experience pain, frustration, sadness, and anger without resorting to a cigarette to cope.

Avoiding uncomfortable or painful feelings seems to be the basis for addiction. Freedom lies in allowing these feelings to be, listening and being curious about them. All they want is to come home, to be allowed to be and come to rest. Maybe we're not a person stuck in a body but, the open space in which it appears...
Anyways, great post Colin!