John Fernandes you need to get your facts straight. You’re completely entitled to your opinion, and…opinions are better when they are based on facts not propaganda.

Cannabis has been cultivated by humans for over 10,000 years, making it one of the earliest plants ever cultivated. Things tend not to stay around that long without significant benefits.

I’m a depressive and without meds I am pretty useless. Would you also have me stop taking Effexor? Because that definitely alters my consciousness. Cannabis is a part of my treatment regimen, it’s the “last mile” of treatment that makes me able to function on a day-to-day basis. Your attitude is sanctimonious, uninformed, and harmful in itself.

I have smoked with both of my kids and I am a great Dad — just ask them. Your statement that I have somehow failed as a parent or as a society member because of my cannabis use is a fantasy. You have absolutely no right to tell me what makes me better or worse. Would it be better for my kids — or society in general — for me to be depressed and on disability because of it?