WEEDING OUT EXCUSES FOR ILLEGALITY

Marijuana. Pot. Cannabis. Mary Jane. The list of names can go on and
on.

This drug has been a main focus in the War on Drugs since the Regan
presidency. It's a drug that the majority of Americans have tried and
yet still is a source of much debate.

Fourteen states now have legalized the drug for medicinal use.
Marijuana is said to help patients suffering from epilepsy, multiple
sclerosis, cancer and AIDS, among a multitude of other medical
conditions. The only state that has attempted to legalize the drug
completely is California; however, Proposition 19 failed in the 2010
elections.

The use of marijuana is a touchy subject for most - a taboo topic in
all reality. However, I'm going to tell you my true thoughts on the
matter. Whether you agree with me or not, don't judge until you hear
the full story.

Pot is a drug, true. However, so are alcohol and tobacco. Both in my
eyes are worse than marijuana. This drug has medicinal value and also
has the potential to help this severe economic situation. If we
regulated marijuana like we regulate alcohol and nicotine, the amount
of money it alone would generate would lead to insurmountable economic
relief.

I also know there are drawbacks to the drug. Some argue that it is a
gateway drug, while others warn of its addictive properties. However,
both alcohol and tobacco have addictive properties and can also lead
to death, with cigarettes leading to a third of all cancers according
to the National Institute on Drug Abuse.

Legalization of marijuana would also lead to less crime. There would
no longer be a need for an underground marijuana culture creating drug
cartels or drug dealers. Instead it would be a legalized substance
that could be government regulated.

I know this is a very touchy subject, and I know many people reading
this don't agree with what I am saying. But before you judge my
thoughts, honestly think about it. Compare the good and the bad.

Obviously, marijuana is still a drug and has its negative
qualities.

But, honestly, what doesn't?