Smoking Marijuana - thoughts?

**Team Zen** · 13th May 2013 17:03

Hey there Confused, I so appreciate your post because I've struggled with the same question so many times! I was what I call a professional weed smoker for 13 years. Throughout the years my daily usage varied (from the wake n' bake to just after work), but I pretty much smoked daily. I too was a functional stoner. And I smoked bong rips, strong Cali weed (medical grade, go OG Kush!!). I actually think that stuff is stronger than any Dutch weed- when there I would order the strongest one on the menu and they'd warn me,"are you sure? it's very powerful.." And I'd smoke it, but still didn't feel as stoned (but it's good nonetheless!) as back home...(originally from California, I am).

I loved being high on THC better than "sober." Moreover, I would choose weed over alcohol any day! I also feel more aware and open when high, and smoking weed has opened my eyes to a lot of issues, the NWO like you mention as an example. And as a musician, playing high was so much more productive/inspired...

But the struggle has come from all those people who say that weed is bad, especially for those with depression (I have it, anxiety too). But from my experiences it always helped me better than any pill! But I would doubt the benefits because I too became "addicted." And I have to disagree with those that may say it's just a habit, not an addiction...When I would run low on my stash it's all I could think about, and how to get more (this before the days of medical cannabis)- and occasional situations in which I compromised myself to get some bordered on sketchy...are not these signs of an addict? I'd ask myself...

Then, when I got pregnant, I decided to stop- I did research the effects of THC during pregnancy- of course the majority of sources said not to do it, it's bad, but no definitive proof to back it up. I did find one article about this doctor/researcher lady who studied cannabis use with pregnant mothers in jamaica. Other than noticing that it lowered breast milk production, she saw no ill effects. in fact, children of moms who used it turned out to be more socially adept and advanced for their age. Moms would even give their kids (and adults) tea with THC to help them sleep, take care of tummy trouble, etc... a normal, accepted remedy.

Regardless, during my pregnancy I stopped everything "harmful." First alcohol, caffeine and cigs, and cut back big time on weed. By month 5 i totally stopped (though smoking a bit really helped the first 3 months with my severe morning sickness)- Holy ****nuts was it hard!! I missed it sooo much- more than cigarettes even. I was really off kilter for a while (though yes I had new hormones and lots of other pregnancy related stuff going on,). It's now been 8 months without it, the longest I've gone since I started. I still think about it, I still would like to smoke a joint after work (probably no more bong rips for me, not as young as I used to be!). And it's been long enough for me to reflect on whether I'm really better off without it. Eh, I think, not really. But did I use it as a crutch to cope with life? Yes. But then again what's wrong with that, honestly? This "reality" can be such a frustration, especially when you're awake. I don't think I had any adverse physical effects (in fact I think it cancelled out the effects of tobacco), and mentally/spiritually I think it made me happier- is that so wrong? If I did start again I would try to not smoke as much or as often, but I know that needing/wanting to smoke more and more can happen quickly for me, that's what makes me question if I should start again...but it's true what others have said- It's important to look into the issues that make you want to smoke so much- Do you need to go to work high? How does it make you feel to consider going to work not high? Once you've been on both sides of the fence, then maybe you can come to a more "educated" choice/decision...if you feel you have to do it, you have no choice, then that's not cool- nothing should control you!

Personally, as a nursing mom, I will continue to not smoke, because I need to make the milk, but in the future, I can see myself doing it again, but not like I used to. Like many others have said, in moderation...I do think it is a magnificent plant...

I have no answer, but I am certainly in solidarity with you! Good luck in your search for insight!

**Lifebringer** · 13th May 2013 19:02

I don't struggle with it, however FEDs and state spray paraffin on the areas the destroy crops on. Parafin may be your problem, depending on your region.

**DeDukshyn** · 13th May 2013 22:38

Posted by donk (here)

Posted by DeDukshyn (here)

Posted by Camilo (here)
Like with tobacco, the only people I've seen that were able to kick the habit, is cold turkey.

Trust me from both an ex tobacco user and an on and off weed smoker. No comparison whatsoever. Absolutely none. Tobacco is like Heroin, weed is less addictive than Starbucks .. but does have a decent psychological addictiveness, which can come with a range of withdrawal symptoms, but it is NOTHING like physical withdrawal symptoms of tobacco. Anyone who tells you other wise is ill informed or gunning for their next hoot via sympathy.

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Posted by WhiteFeather (here)
Caughhhhhhing, sorry what was the original question. I forgot. : )

I can't not chuckle out loud everytime I read this .. Thanks WF - not enough amusement in this world. You do your part

I can't disagree with what you say, but having not had a cig (I was 1.5-2 pack a day smoker) since sept, not having a drink in 4 years (I was disgustingly addicted for 12+), adderall and Wellbutrin I was precribed for years... I'm finding it hardest to stop burning "god's finest trees"

Perhaps because it is not as expensive (to me) or disruptive to my life?

Just don't discount the addictive properties. It can be as bad as shiny screens (TV/video games/Internet/porn), gambling, sugar, etc.

I find its much easier to HATE booze & cigs (and worse drugs), which is what helped me quit.

I feel understanding addiction is more important than the actual thing you are addicted to

Psychological vs physical (as indicated in my post you quoted) -- both components need to be realized -- tobacco and heroin have both components, weed, pretty much just the psychological aspects -- which can be very powerful, but usually much easier to address.

Consider that your cig "addiction" has moved to other substances - mine did - I ended up drinking and eating more after quitting cigarettes, then having to address those - again this is all psychological, but still a royal pain in the arse. Convenience is likely a factor, as you mentioned.

A psychological addiction will try to prevent you from trying earnestly at all, a physical addiction will kick your ass physically when you try in earnest, and make you go back. These are not absolutes - psychological addictions can have some withdrawal as well, but often short-lived.

I know about addictions

Good luck Donk!

**MargueriteBee** · 14th May 2013 03:35

Here in Washington Weed is legal, so nice. My way of using it is making coconut butter with it and using that as a base for body creme. The dark spots on my face are fading away.