Pubdate: Tue, 12 Jun 2001 Source: Abbotsford News (CN BC) Copyright: 2001 Hacker Press Ltd. Contact: http://www.abbynews.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1155 Author: Michel C. Didora I CHOOSE MY OWN REALITY Editor, The News: In response to anti-marijuana letters to the editor: It is my belief the method in which I choose to alter my perception on reality is one of personal choice. Yes, I do smoke pot when I'm depressed and it does make me feel better. I admit marijuana is my coping mechanism. Many psychologists agree that 12-step programs are beneficial in recovery for addicts. But I disagree that I should fool myself in believing that a higher power can solve my problems by exchanging one coping mechanism for another. We all know there have been more deaths attributed in the name religion than that of marijuana use. But we don't try to eradicate religion. As a society of many cultures and customs TOLERANCE is a key factor that makes a society work without circumstance and tolerance should be applied to members of our society who smoke marijuana. The day that my method of finding serenity is eradicated may be the beginning of the eradication of your serenity. Michel C. Didora Abbotsford - --- MAP posted-by: Beth