2005
On this month’s topics …
I’ve never had a problem with the legalisation of marijuana - I’ve done my fair share and never suffered any ill-effects, apart from that next morning feeling of complete stupidity.
But lately, here in Australia, there’s been a fair amount of debate about hash’s role in some mental illness, particularly the emergence of schizophrenia in young people after even episodic use of marijuana.
Now, you’re probably gonna ask me to cite the research, and I can’t, because, y’know, I’m slack that way, but I probably could dig it up if I absolulely am put on the spot.
So, I guess my attitude now is, let’s do a little more research. I don’t believe the argument about alcohol and cigarettes being legal despite being more dangerous holds too much water. It’s apples and oranges. Although I do agree with the assertion that if governments could make money from it, hash would be legalised, double-quick.
Topic 2: My overall view of the state of America …
What a week to be asking that, huh? Honestly, I’m scared to be frank. I’ve run into trouble this week on an email list I am was on because I was critical of the US government’s response to Katrina and was subsequently censored into silence.
Interesting experience.
So I guess my view of the overall state of America is not all that positive, right now. I know a lot of individual Americans, and I think they’re generous, intelligent, reasoned people.
But collective America? Governmental America? *shaking my head* … Let’s just say that the events of the past week have confirmed my (Australian) opinion that your government focuses too much on its image overseas, and not enough on taking care of its poor, homeless, elderly and infirm at home.
I’ll leave it there. I’m not sure I have the right to comment really. It’s just my opinionated nature that makes me say as much as I have. Forgive me … :>
Topic 3: Musicians, artists, books others may not have heard of … hmmmm … an Australian author called Tim Winton (Cloudstreet) … a young Australian singer called Casey Donovan (she won our Australian Idol show last year) has a second album coming out soon and will be around a long time, I believe …
