Get Active Subscribe Support Us

SMOKE POT POLITELY, PLEASE

How should one greet the reality of marijuana being legalized, and regulated by the government? I suggest that if one supports the new provision of our state Constitution, that the transition from our present liberal position to the more broadly liberal impact of the new Amendment 64 is an important transition.

( Remember please that the federal law is clear, and cannabis is illegal, including that for making rope and food, and cannot be grown legally, or -- with the exception of industrial hemp products -- possessed or consumed ).

From the certification of the state election by the governor in 30-60 days, until marijuana is accepted more easily, newly freed smokers might consider how they can help ease the transition for all of us.  There is no downside.

No one believes that the federal government has any interest in prosecuting every pot smoker.  It only makes sense to make it easy for them to believe that they are making an intelligent decision.  I suggest that for the moment, smokers abandon with appropriate caution and restraint the paranoia about smoking a joint, and retain the low-key, below the radar behavior all are so used to.  Behave as before, and without the paranoia.  Do it because it is good manners and good politics.

I think that it is important to not put a smell in someone's face when they might not appreciate it.  It will not convert them, will offend them, and will not ease the transition.  If a concert is "no smoking," it is still "no smoking." Weed issues aside, it is just good manners, and honoring the contract with the arena.  If you don't like it, change it, or don't attend the event.  We legalized marijuana within the system.  Working within the system, grass roots, can be done with success! This is America, and it is a wonderful thing.

Imagine if in six months, a strongly anti-64, anti cannabis person was asked what had changed since we amended the constitution to legalize marijuana, and the answer was "well, I guess nothing.  I don't see any difference.  The school looks like it got some paint." Is that, or is that not, good manners at work for the greater good?

LENNY FRIELING

Lafayett