Pubdate: Tue, 26 Mar 2002 Source: Daily Herald (IL) Copyright: 2002 The Daily Herald Company Contact: http://www.dailyherald.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/107 Author: James Reyes THE ROLE OF DRUGS IN INTERPERSONAL RELATIONS If we ever want to solve the problem in this country with drugs and alcohol, we have to realize what we are dealing with. We have a love/hate relationship with drugs and alcohol. Even the self-destruction aspect is given a romantic glorification. Alcohol and marijuana aren't just the gateway drugs to hard drugs; they are the gateway to friendship and acceptance. As long as loneliness and alienation are prevalent, drugs and alcohol will be used as cover to form a bond. People are embarrassed by their feelings. Other activities with less of a downside need to be championed, to take the place of social interaction caused or eased by drugs and alcohol. James Reyes Chicago - --- MAP posted-by: Keith Brilhart