KIDS ON LOSING END OF POWER FIGHT

Regarding the Nov. 30 letter headlined "Test students for drug abuse," it
seems Florida Today does not know the difference between drug use and drug
abuse. It's the same fuzzy thinking that got us into this mess as we try
harder to rid society of these substances.

There is no better way to make a drug more prevalent than a crusade to
drive it further underground. The hype that accompanies the crusade is not
lost on kids.

First, they are attracted to the drug by its glitter of illegality. Then
they discover that the drug is not so bad after all. Then they come to know
that their elders are just trying to scare them, not being completely
honest about the danger.

Tell the kids the truth: The real danger of pot is its illegality. To get
caught with pot will end your future unless your family is well- connected
or has the funds to fight the criminal justice system.

This is a war, kids. It started as a war on drugs, but now is about power,
and you are on the losing end.