1stCommando, I am appalled that your dad's friend offered the dip to you, considering that it can be highly addictive (due to the chemical stimulant reacting within your body and causing the dependency). He might have meant well, but to me it seems like an irresponsible gesture.
I once asked a friend if he could offer me one of his cigarettes, so that I may "try it out". Of course, I had no intention of smoking at all, but I was just curious to hear what his response would be. He told me that he did not want to be that person that offers me my first smoke; rather, if I had smoked before, he would have gladly shared his cigarettes. I was impressed by his response. Yet at the same time, I pitied him knowing that he must be struggling with his addiction to cigarettes.
From college, I remember learning that any addiction is primarily caused by habituation, doing the same thing over and over. However, it is much different when your addiction directly influences your body's stimulus and chemical balance-- this could lead to your body being in a state of withdrawal. The magnitude of the problem is intensified. I probably should not go into further details, but I just wanted to point out the seriousness of your situation.
I have had my own share of combats with addiction, and I feel that I often prevailed. These are my suggestions for you to consider:
1) It starts with your willpower. If you are determined enough, then you will succeed. Do realize that it will be difficult and you will have to struggle a lot.
2) Take small steps. Like other members in this thread have already suggested, set small goals (such as quitting for 1 day, then 3 days, then 1 week, and so on.) Knowing that you have accomplished the smaller goals will bolster your confidence and reassure your commitment to ending your addiction.
3) When you get that "urge" to take a dip, STOP IMMEDIATELY whatever you're doing and acknowlege the craving that your body demands. Then remind yourself of all the negative consequences that could happen if you do reach for the dip. Tell yourself, "If I give in now, it will only get much more difficult later on."
4) Distract your mind with something else more pleasurable (that will also not cause a different addiction to ensue). Repeat this step every time you get the "urge" until you can break out of your habit.
5) If you can manage to break away from the habit, NEVER LOOK BACK. Do not ever have the thought of grasping for the dip ever again; in the end, it is not worth all the trouble that you have had to put up with.
Good luck to you. Be mentally strong! Mind over body. Be determined!!!
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