LEGALIZING MARIJUANA WOULD SOLVE PROBLEMS

Thank you for printing the sane, rational column on drugs by Stephen Young.
It is time for people to stop classifying marijuana as an "evil" drug, in
the same category with crack, heroin and the others.

Much could be gained by the legalization of marijuana, which causes less
violence and problems than alcohol. It could be grown in America, have age
limits for purchase and be taxed. Plus, tax money would be saved by ending
the arrests and jail time. Perhaps part of the revenue could be used for
drug rehabilitation.

Why do people use drugs, drink alcohol and eat too much? Because they are
trying to feel better. Why do they feel bad? That is the real issue that
needs to be addressed by a society that endorses the work ethic over
experiencing joy on a daily level.

We all need to wake up and make our world an easier, better, saner place to
live.

Charlene Altrichter, Geneva