TIME TO GET OFF THE POT AND DECIDE

Editor, The News:

The ongoing debate about marijuana has, frankly, annoyed me.

I read the papers and the different reports and opinions, both pro and
con, regarding pot use.

I have seen politicians and pro-marijuana activists on television get
into heated debates about the topic of decriminalization/legalization.

I say, make a choice either way and quit wasting time and money.

I believe that our tax dollars could be put to far better use than to
debate the topic.

I see in the papers that a convicted child rapist has been released
from jail.

I would rather see that person behind bars than the average Joe for
smoking a joint.

My view is to decriminalize pot, but that is just my view.

I hear arguments that pot is harmful and dangerous, especially for
teens.

To that I say, parents, get involved with your children. Listen to
them.

You may learn that smoking pot should be the least of your worries
with them!

I also hear arguments that pot is the "gateway" drug.

I have smoked pot as a teen and I have never tried any other illegal
substance, so I guess I prove that theory wrong.

Again, I hear that smoking a marijuana cigarette is more harmful than
smoking a tobacco cigarette.

Well, shouldn't cigarettes also be illegal? I always hear of people
dying every day from the direct use of tobacco.

I have not heard of anyone dying from the direct use of marijuana.

Maybe I am wrong.

After all, I am not a scientist or a politician, or an expert concerning
this issue.

However, as a mother, taxpayer and citizen of the pot capital of B.C.,
I say quit sitting on the pot and pee already!

Shannon Lemperes

Abbotsford