Marijuana use as hurtful as it is helpful
This response is a reply to Michael Lawson’s letter indicating that anyone who doesn’t support legalizing marijuana is uninformed and should walk a mile in his shoes.
I fully understand the need he has to use the drug and if it does stop the progression of his disease, then he should have legal access to it; however, to make this a legal drug like tobacco and alcohol would be the final downfall of our society. As for the propaganda of the 1930s, I can only say I wasn’t alive then and really don’t understand that reference.
Perhaps Mr. Lawson should walk a mile in my shoes. A close member of my family was addicted to marijuana. It nearly ruined our family. I can truthfully write that the person involved has made a complete turnaround. I thank God every day that the life of my loved one is healed and they are leading a full productive life. You cannot imagine the heartache and know of the sleepless nights waiting for that phone call you don’t ever want to come. This went on for years. The stress and pain I suffered will never be erased. Making this substance legal for street use is the biggest folly I have ever heard of. Mr. Lawson is only concerned about his need, not the damage this would do to our society. I certainly don’t want someone using marijuana defending our country, flying an airplane, preforming surgery or any of a thousand other jobs that require full mental alertness.
Perhaps Mr. Lawson should read about the adverse affects of marijuana at the following link: www.geteyesmart.org/
eyesmart/ask/questions/q0406c.cfm
Please do not label me as uneducated and misinformed about marijuana as I have had first-hand experience with the devastation it causes. Walk a mile in my shoes and experience what I have and then you have a right to criticize me.
— Shirley A. Thomas, Brazil
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