Pubdate: Thu, 14 May 2009
Source: Albany Democrat-Herald (OR)
Copyright: 2009 Lee Enterprises
Contact: http://www.democratherald.com/forms/contact/letters_editor/
Website: http://www.democratherald.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/7
Author: William Morgan

MARIJUANA AND GREEN TEETH

First let me remind some writers that research requires that one
consider data that both supports and negates the basic thesis. This
research must be done with an open mind and with clear vision as to
the total scope of that data.

There has never been a medical opinion that consumption of the
cannabis herb has caused death from lung cancer. Studies have
suggested the opposite, that smoking cannabis can reduce cancer nodes.

Additionally, it has been found that it is impossible to overdose on
cannabis. And as for addiction: One might "want" to get high, but one
never "needs" to get high. That is not addiction, that's personal choice.

It was recently suggested by one local writer that a pain sufferer
should "just take a pill." Studies have shown that the beneficial
ingredients in marijuana are not activated until burning. This
accounts for the inefficiency of THC-containing pills. This is also
why eating a bud or a baggie of pot doesn't have any effect other than
green teeth.

While I do not condone the use of any illegal drug, I do take
exception to the statement that usage effects all persons'
coordination, alertness and ability to concentrate. While serving in
Vietnam, I saw military officials remove drunken soldiers from the
berm line while leaving those smoking pot, after confiscating said
herb. Seems the military, in spite of "Reefer Madness," has realized
that a stoned soldier could still function while a drunk was dangerous
to everyone, and so off to LBJ (Long Bien Jail) he went.

Sometimes gaining the clear vision necessary to accept data which does
not support an ignorant or biased opinion requires a thorough cleaning
of the navel.

William Morgan, Lebanon
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MAP posted-by: Richard Lake