DECRIMINALIZATION OF POT

Editor, The Star, Sir,

As a current, occasional cannabis user, who is able to control himself
and act responsibly, I must associate the self-described "ex-pothead"
Frank Sterle of White Rock, with militant non-smokers, alcoholics, and
other weak-willed individuals who require society to crack down on
their habits as they haven't the fortitude to accept responsibility
for their own actions.

I agree that decriminalization may lead to increased use, as evidenced
by the celebration after alcohol prohibition was lifted, but it will
also lead to decreased harm. Children, who could once buy drugs of all
kinds from illegal dealers, would find themselves turned away at the
door of government licensed establishments. You'd have the occasional
dimwit that would purchase for minors, as happens with six-packs of
beer, now and again - but overall, substances would be near impossible
for minors to acquire unless they found a way into their parents' supply.

I know Mr. Sterle can think of a million reasons why his secret
craving must remain legally out of reach, but I can think of a million
and one more for him to help others learn from his mistakes and let
humanity enjoy the freedom that Thomas Jefferson, George Washington,
Benjamin Franklin, and a cast of thousands once kicked your Royal
asses to gain. You're still enjoying democracy up there in Canada,
aren't you?

Christopher Joseph,

Parma, Ohio