Pubdate: Thu, 12 Jan 2006
Source: Nanaimo News Bulletin (CN BC)
Copyright: 2006, BC Newspaper Group
Contact:  http://www.nanaimobulletin.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/948
Author: Alastair James Berry

SCARING KIDS OVER DRUG WON'T WORK

To the Editor,

William Clegg will gain no credit by trying to scare kids off 
methamphetamine by stating that brain damage occurs with the first 
taste of it, when this is not correct (Hunter deserves praise for 
meth task force work, Dec. 27).

Kids who take drugs are quite wise to the situation. They have seen 
the effects of Ritalin on other problem kids and the effects of drugs 
like amphetamines at rave concerts.

Teenaged boys, in particular, consider themselves invincible and 
immortal; dry logic is insufficient to overcome their natural 
curiosity and their desire to prove themselves "grown up."

Certainly, cocaine and amphetamines are potentially dangerous, 
socializing"party time" drugs which can keep the user dancing and 
raving for hours beyond the capability of any adult.

The only way to control drug use in kids is by education, example and 
legalization of drug use, with the drugs being supplied legally 
through regulated channels.

We need to teach kids, from kindergarten on, the joys and pleasures 
of drugs, alcohol and sexual activity - including when and where 
these are acceptable, what the dangers are and how best to avoid trouble.

Like fast cars and motorcycles,drugs, particularly when flavoured 
with sex and alcohol,are exciting - but also unforgiving task masters 
if too big a risk is taken.

We must teach kids how to handle drugs then leave them to it. And if 
they fail they can only blame themselves.

Alastair James Berry,

Nanaimo
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