Not replying to you specifically Stickman, just that I had to have somewhere to post an additional thought. I was doing some reading earlier this year and came across the fact that early in this country’s history Applejack was the beverage of choice, but that over time it no longer is the drink of choice for Americans. Applejack was used primarily as a substitute for water. Most Americans were obliterated before noon on Applejack...I found that little tidbit humorous.
Humans generally enjoy being in an altererd state. Jordan Peterson went into this once briefly. I think it has something to do with the pain of existence on a subconcious level. Many of us have used drugs, whether it be of the legal or illegal kind. I make no judgement there. The problem comes in when that use impairs living of life, or the cutting off of fingers (!)
If folks want to smoke marijuana or eat it in a cookie or gummy bear, more power to them. It should be heavily regulated such as alcohol and should be up to states to decide. If Utah wants to outlaw pot use, that is up to the fair citizens of Utah. One can always lobby to change the law or move to a more permissive state if desired.
Can Marijauna be harmful. I am certain that it can, just like eating too much salami (nitrates), too much alcohol, and too much of anything. Can it distort brains. Probably does, same with alcohol. But with that in mind, I would rather have marijuana legal and keep meth, herion and other such drugs illegal. Peyote, and other hallucengenic drugs do have a place in society and not for causal use. The Shamans and “Oracles” have used such items throughout history to develop visions and understanding of the world around them. There is even a line of thought that the burning bush encountered by Moses was an acacia tree/bush that is common in the area and known for its effects. One of its effects is said to be the “burning bush.” or somehting like that.
But this gets into a whole wide range of topics involving Alchemy and what not. Terrance McKenna was a leading advocate on such issues. It is an interesting area of study to say the least, but for the topic at hand...the casual use of marijuana, not pertinent.
( I have gone on too long to remember the original point and no I don’t partake....) Except to say that Americans, as well as most human societies throughout history, have found a substance to alter the plain existence, whether it be for amusement and merriment or other reasons. Folks are going to smoke marijuana...not all, but some will. Leave the decision to the states and regulate it and keep it away from children. Heck they can get it easier than I can...
An addendum to my previous post. I would like to see “pot farms” be part of the Farm Bureau, etc. I want pot farms to operate in the open so that the illegal farms disappear. I want to see the professionalism of wineries extended to “pot farms” so that the current seediness of characters associated with the illegal grows is a thing of the past. If its going to be legal...make it legal and professional.
Excellent post. Thanks for sharing :)