SIDE EFFECTS A RISK

Many have sadly witnessed relatives and friends who used marijuana and
other "harmless recreational drugs" and later experienced serious medical
difficulties, even death ("Dangers of abuse sobering," Nov. 2). Long-term
effects of these drugs are not known, but you can logically conclude that
they won't be positive.

It is not politically correct today to say that marijuana is harmful. The
sad reality is, however, it is more harmful than smoking tobacco. Yet many
states - Massachusetts, California and others - are looking to make
marijuana more legal and accessible. This is very hypocritical, as well as
being illogical.

Al DiLascia, Chicopee