USE RESPECT TOWARD ALL

Newspapers are now reporting that scientific research may have
discovered medicinal benefits in tobacco. Over the years, we have read
similar accounts of other powerful substances, such as alcohol,
caffeine, chocolate, marijuana, etc., also having more than one side
to their natures.

I commend the scientists, and wish them success in their research. But
there is another aspect in their findings to point out, beyond the
fact that these substances may turn out to be helpful in relieving
pain and suffering and not simply be considered causes of it.

Our culture is afflicted with a destructive psycho-socio-illogical
addiction. It is that powerful addiction -- rushing to judgment --
along with its companion habit -- black-and-white thinking. Out of
this haste comes great waste. This is also the root cause of nearly
all of society's antagonism, separateness, and political fighting.

As long as people remain hooked on hastily judging, not only powerful
substances, but also, our fellow beings, life's circumstances, and all
the rest, by focusing on only one aspect of a thing and ignoring the
whole of its nature, we suffer greatly from our collective ignorance.

However, if we make strides toward overcoming this addiction, we can
redirect the energy we spend fighting, hating and fearing the assorted
people and things we "believe" deserve this treatment.

We can all do our own thing, but it will essentially be the same thing
- -- we can do the best we know how to treat everything and everyone,
including our own bodies and minds, with respect and develop and
exercise self-discipline. Don't be quick to think that being
respectful is a simple matter. Everything and everyone requires its
own unique and appropriate respectful treatment: the scoundrel and the
saint; a trout and a cup of coffee.

Ron Greenstein,
El Cerrito