I am writing to support Ballot Measure 2.

The debate on this issue has brought out fear-based arguments from people who neither use nor understand cannabis.

The reality of social cannabis use in Alaska is 

(1) a peaceful exchange of privately grown cannabis among mature friends who have been consuming cannabis for decades with no ill health effects.  In fact, cannabis is a geriatric herb; keeping small amounts of it in one’s system seems to prolong life and foster good health.

(2) a peaceful exchange of privately grown cannabis to help people with chronic disease who have turned to cannabis preparations for healing.  Lives have been saved.  I know people who were at death’s door, or who were in terrible pain, who experienced a complete turnaround in health from the use of cannabis infused oil both internally and externally.

(3) a peaceful exchange of privately grown cannabis among the young who have discovered that cannabis mellows them out and predisposes them to creativity and happiness rather than violence.  

The fear-mongerers call cannabis a gateway drug.  Nothing could be farther from the truth.  The reality for most cannabis smokers is that cannabis is their preferred recreational substance, and they turn to synthetic drugs only when they cannot find cannabis.  

To those who stir up fear about the new forms of consumption, the answer is exactly the same as with alcohol:  family and friends will discuss the effects of eating, inhaling, etc., and reach  sensible conclusions based on experience.  

The main positive effect of ending this prohibition will be to remove tens of thousands of peaceful cannabis users and growers from the threat of prison.  

Lindianne Sarno
Homer, Alaska