This topic has been lulling around my head for a while. I know where I stand on it, but it’s such a touchy subject.
I’m talking about the legalization of cannabis.
I recently read an article that confirmed my beliefs when it comes to just how many people smoke marijuana, even though it’s still illegal.
One in five youths and one in three adults admit they have consumed cannabis within the last year.
So it’s pretty clear that regardless of the fact that it’s against the law and they could face fines, or even jail time, people are still using it.
So why not benefit from it?
When the legalization of cannabis became a topic around the dinner table, I was always on the side of legalizing it, and no it’s not because I’m a user, it’s because I can see the benefits of those wonderful tax dollars coming in.
Really, it’s no different than alcohol. If you provide it, the people will come.
In fact, they may be even more apt to purchase the drug if it comes from a source they know won’t be hiding in the shadows of a dark alley selling a tainted product.
With drugs like fentanyl, it’s important that those who are consuming cannabis know it comes from somewhere safe. By legalizing it and giving marijuana-enthusiasts somewhere to buy it, they’re probably saving a few lives.
As long as the proper rules and regulations are in place, I think this can be an okay thing.
But there are going to be a lot of hurdles along the way.
People will have things to say about the smell, the smoke, and the possibility of youth getting their hands on it.
Of course, healthcare professionals are looking at this from both sides. There is a concern that the smoke from cannabis can be harmful to your lungs, dangerous when mixed with alcohol, risks associated with pregnancy, and risks of those with a family history of mental illness. And, as always, driving impaired is a major issue.
Both of those lists sound very familiar to smoking cigarettes and/or drinking alcohol, and yet those are legalized.
As many downfalls as there are to cannabis, there are benefits. It has been proven to help with anxiety, pain, seizures, and so much more.
I think if we take the time to do this right, there is no harm in giving it a try.
Some states have legalized it and are doing okay. In fact, there are whole countries that seem to be functioning just fine with cannabis.
Just like with anything new, there are going to be some learning curves, but if everyone can at least agree to disagree when it comes to some of the regulations around it, that’s a win.
Even if you aren’t waving the cannabis flag, I think at this point legalization is inevitable, so as they say, if you can’t beat ‘em, join ‘em.
