The Marijuana Bond

In honor of marijuana being legalized in two more states, as well as our nation’s capitol, I would like to take the time to write about an indirect effect that marijuana prohibition has afforded many of us. As unjust and oppressive as marijuana legislation has been in America during the last century, there has been at least one (albeit, unintentional) benefit to private citizens. These measures of intrusion and needless paternalism at the hands of our government have been a catalyst that has helped marijuana evolve into a de facto symbol of political and social harmony.

Many people believe that the association between marijuana and peace is a direct consequence of marijuana’s widely known sedating and relaxing effects, which can supposedly cause users to become complacent. Indeed, the stereotype of the blissfully ignorant and unmotivated stoner is often perpetuated in the media.

However, it is my belief that the prohibition of marijuana has facilitated a sense of unity among users. In my mind, a sense of trust is often established the moment someone invites you to join them in an activity that is sanctioned by authority and rejected by society in general.

Through this small act of rebellion, an unspoken bond is established. Because marijuana is not always readily available in many areas, users become connected by virtue of the necessity to share what they have, as well as help each other find a reliable source. In spite of the countless social divides in our country, marijuana has often been a path to common ground.

During college, a young man from Saudi Arabia moved into the student co-op I resided in. Initially, we did not have much contact, because we both assumed we would not have much in common. Well, one day he was outside smoking and asked me if I would like to join him. As we smoked, we began a casual conversation, which evolved into a deeper one about our backgrounds, our families, our interests, etc. Our smoke sessions on the porch became a regular thing, and we have been friends for over two years now. I have many stories similar to this, of deep friendships that began over a bowl or a spliff.

As exciting it is to see unjust prohibition laws struck down, I find myself wondering how the commercialization of marijuana is going to impact the culture. Will people be less inclined to share or feel that sense of solidarity when it is readily available at the corner store?