Pubdate: Fri, 04 Oct 2002
Source: Halifax Herald (CN NS)
Copyright: 2002 The Halifax Herald Limited
Contact:  http://www.herald.ns.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/180
Author: Jason Crewe
Referenced: http://www.mapinc.org/drugnews/v02/n1807/a02.html

GREAT ASSET

Dear Editor:

Christian Thibaudeau writes, "Perhaps if there were fewer people on dope, 
this country would not be in such a mess" (Sept. 25 letter), suggesting 
that people who are "on" dope make poor decisions.

If by "dope," he is referring to marijuana, I don't believe that you can be 
"on" dope any more than you can be "on" painkillers or "on" alcohol. 
Important decisions shouldn't be made stoned, just like they shouldn't be 
made drunk.

Any chemical entering our body affects the way we think and act. Why pick 
on a naturally growing plant? Scientifically, marijuana simulates a 
chemical in humans that stimulates the right-brain cells and makes people 
feel good. The right brain is thought to be involved in the creation of new 
ideas and in artistic expression. Marijuana also is a proven painkiller and 
appetite stimulant, important in pain treatment.

With all these benefits, you would have Canadians waste millions of dollars 
arresting "criminals" who benefit from the use of the drug. Maybe that 
money has better uses - i.e., health care and environmental protection 
programs.

The criminalization of marijuana not only wastes taxpayer money and 
prosecutes innocent people, but because it is illegal, people are forced to 
buy from insecure sources, which could be linked to terrorist organizations.

Marijuana is a great asset to life on this planet and, if used wisely, we 
all stand to benefit. It also makes people laugh, which most people don't 
do often enough.

Jason Crewe, Halifax
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MAP posted-by: Terry Liittschwager