Pubdate: Fri, 10 Sep 1999
Source: Herald, The (WA)
Copyright: 1999 The Daily Herald Co.
Contact:  http://www.heraldnet.com/
Author: Daniel B. Palmer, Lynnwood

MARIJUANA

Keep It An Illegal Substance

Marijuana should not be legalized. It is a powerful narcotic which has
influenced too many young people to experiment further with lethal drugs,
especially cocaine. Marijuana also makes the mind docile, gradually causing
a lack of ambition in the habitual user. The argument that marijuana is less
devastating to society than alcohol is pointless and overused. Each has a
uniquely detrimental effect on the individual. Marijuana's immediate effects
may not be as obvious as those of alcohol, but its undeviating subjugation
on the human mind should be obvious and of concern.

Although America is apparently losing the war on drugs, it should continue
the fight. Along with this battle we should strive to make a better society
for future generations. Drugs like marijuana only defeat our minds, leaving
us dull and apathetic, with little imagination or incentive to resolve our
difficulties.

Daniel B. Palmer, Lynnwood

- ---
MAP posted-by: Jo-D