I've quit many times during my years as an old hippie pothead.
My times of abstinence have ranged from several months, to a couple years, to the last break which lasted 15 years.
That long dry stretch was the result of a conviction for cultivation, and it effectively knocked getting high right out of my lifestyle.
If, during a time of abstinence, I took just one hit, I would be "hooked" again and launch into a new cycle of smoking.
Recently I got a medical authorization, a half ounce, and pipe.
Since my first toke a couple of months ago, I have acquired a bunch of pipes, a bong, and a vaporizer.
I have also gotten my grow equipment together and am about to launch into my first crop in 15 years.
I'm back, and I'm loving it.
what you said about taking a hit during a period of abstinence is absolutely right... i remember was DONE smoking, had no desire to smoke. well a couple of my buddies were talkin to me, smoking a j... i wasn't gonna hit it. then i figued, "eh, what the heck." and i did it out of sheer boredom... after that, i was wanting more and more again! so when you're at that point where you don't particularly need pot (even though it might enhance and make everything better, haha) just SAY NO. that is, if you have a reason... if you're trying not to smoke. as soon as I'm done with my six years, I'm gonna be back smoking... but for now, I need to get out of this town, get some experience, save up some money, get an education, etc. Sure, it comes with a military stringency (if that's even a word, haha) but it is surely worth it. Pot is great, but you need to get your life in order first. I hope this is what happens to me. I'm going to learn a foreign language and hopefully get hired or something using that skill... I hear everyone wants bilingual employees. I hope that's the case when I get out!