USING DRUGS IS A CONSCIOUS CHOICE

Editor:

I've served in addictions recovery for 27 years and see marijuana as an
addictive, halucinogenic drug, that distorts reality.

Yet marijuana, heroin, alcohol, tobacco, cocaine or other addictive drugs
only have as much power over us as our choices give them.

Laws and law enforcement can act as curbs and guides for our corporate
choices. Each of us is responsible for our individual choices, whether
these are rebellion, self centered, escapist, constructive or obedient.

Behind our choices is our purpose for living and our goals for life.

When I was younger, I felt I had no purpose for living, except for selfish
pleasure and escape from reality, and so drugs, suicide and rebellion were
activities I considered.

I've come to recognize my purpose by following Jesus, and He continues to
make all the difference in clarifying what is wise in my choices, for today
and for the future.

Where do we want to go as a society in Canada? Where do we want to go with
our lives?

Answering these questions will give direction to whether it is wise to
decriminalize marijuana. The choices we make affect the people around us
for good or for evil.

May God give mercy and grace to each of us to make wise choices.

Helmut Boehm

Wagner Hills Farm Society,

Aldergrove