Pubdate: Fri, 6 Nov 2009 Source: Appeal-Democrat (Marysville, CA) Copyright: 2009 Appeal-Democrat Contact: http://www.appeal-democrat.com/sections/services/forms/editorletter.php Website: http://www.appeal-democrat.com Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1343 Author: Kirk Muse NANNY GOVERNMENT WANTS TO PUNISH US I'm writing about Cynthia Tucker's thoughtful Nov. 1 column, "It's time to end this modern prohibition." Beyond the fact that our so-called war on drugs is counterproductive and a complete waste of money, what about the right of adult citizens to be left alone - especially in the privacy of our own homes. We don't punish those who attempt suicide and survive. So why do we punish those who consume the wrong (politically selected) recreational drugs? I don't want my government attempting to protect me from myself. I want my government to protect me from those who want to harm me against my will. Today, our nanny-state government tells us which recreational drugs we may or may not consume. Note that Viagra is OK, but marijuana is not. Note that tobacco is OK, but marijuana is not. Tomorrow, our nanny-state government will tell us which foods we may or may not eat. For our own good and protection, of course. Kirk Muse Mesa, Ariz. - --- MAP posted-by: Richard Lake