MARIJUANA BENEFITS SOCIETY IN SEVERAL WAYS

Re: Ignoring marijuana mayhem is irresponsible, Voice of the People, Nov. 19

I believe H. J. Esau's letter missed important facts. I agree that
marijuana, especially too much of it, can cause harm to some people,
but it can also help other people enjoy life. It is arguably less
harmful than alcohol.

Like alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, marijuana does not go away when
it is prohibited. We are wasting an opportunity to increase government
revenue by letting the production and sale of marijuana go untaxed.

Other things cause harm to people, too. Consider the millions dead
after wars fought over religion. Is that enough cause to prohibit
religion? Religion is a big part of the lives of most people on this
planet and the peace of mind religions give people should not be
overlooked because of some problems that exist. Similarly, the
potential for marijuana to contribute in a positive way to society
should not be irresponsibly ignored.

Brad Hignell

Vancouver