SUPREME COURT IS 'NARROW-MINDED'

I hear from the supreme beings in Washington, D.C., an opinion on states
rights in regard to the use of marijuana by the seriously ill.

In 10 states concerned for the lives and liberties of their people, rights
are to be put aside by six of nine justices who are too narrow-minded to
see the need for such treatments.

I for one cannot see how anyone can say that it's all right to use tobacco
to the detriment of one's health, and turn around and say that another
plant -- smoked to alleviate suffering -- is illegal.

Maybe the drug companies have a hand in this and see marijuana as a threat
to them. Is that possible?

With the price of health care astronomical, maybe the hospitals and HMOs
are mixed up in this decision as well. I believe in the Scripture
"Physician, cure yourself" (Luke 23:4).

What could the court's motivation be to make criminals out of law-abiding
citizens?

I know that the marijuana mostly is being used by people for recreation,
like alcohol. I'm not an advocate for marijuana being legalized. I have
seen what the drug can do to healthy people.

But I also know the good that marijuana can do, and I honestly believe that
we ought not throw out the baby with the bath water.

How do I know so much? Well, I'll have to take the Fifth Amendment on that.

WILLIAM P. CANNON

Coffeeville