Pubdate: Tue, 13 Nov 2012
Source: Daily Camera (Boulder, CO)
Copyright: 2012 The Daily Camera.
Contact:  http://www.dailycamera.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/103
Author: Lenny Frieling

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
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MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom