[Crispy]

Tobacco is the only dangerous article that you can carry around anywhere

Is that a translation issue, or is it as stupid as it sounds? I guess I agree though, only because I don't see lots of Japanese breaking the law and raising hell about it, like Americans would.

[cstaylor]

You have to understand, smoking is one of those 'unique' and 'beautiful traditions' the Nipponese claim they must protect. You know, like the tradition of everyone having a white Christian wedding with a fake English teacher-come-preacher, and the ancient tradition of using explosive harpoons to kill whales, and my favorite tradition, the annual trip to Tokyo Disneyworld to make offerings to Nippon's most important Shinto Gods, Mickey and Minny Mouse.

[cstaylor]

...and I'm just trying to hold down the fort while you're "busy" this week.