In a recent letter to the renowned advice column Dear Abby, a reader from Oregon shared a troubling account of hosting young adult relatives for a five-day visit. The host, who wishes to remain anonymous, observed that both relatives, in their early 30s with full-time jobs, engaged in heavy marijuana consumption throughout their stay, raising serious concerns about their health and safety.
Excessive Consumption Patterns
The relatives reportedly smoked marijuana joints before breakfast, mid-morning, after lunch, before dinner, after dinner, and before bed, totaling an estimated five to seven joints per person each day. They noted that the locally purchased cannabis was significantly stronger than what they could obtain in their home state, yet dismissed suggestions to moderate their intake with a casual "we're on vacation" response.
Health and Safety Implications
Compounding the issue, the pair interspersed their smoking with high-caffeine energy drinks, leading to noticeable symptoms of anxiety and paranoia. Alarmingly, they frequently drove a rented car after smoking, putting themselves and others at risk of a DUI if stopped by law enforcement. The host drew a parallel, stating that if they had seen her consuming multiple glasses of wine throughout the day, they would likely express concern about her habits.
Legal and Ethical Considerations
While recreational marijuana is legal in both Oregon and the relatives' home state, Abby emphasized that legality does not equate to advisability in all situations. She pointed out that being stoned impairs reaction times and poses dangers on the road, highlighting the need for responsible use.
Abby's Advice
In her response, Abby advised the reader to avoid commenting on how the relatives spend their money but encouraged addressing the specific concerns about excessive pot smoking and driving under the influence. She stressed that open communication is key, as these behaviors could indicate underlying issues or a vacation binge, warranting a compassionate discussion now that the visit has concluded.
Broader Context
This letter underscores ongoing debates about marijuana use in society, particularly as legalization spreads. It raises questions about addiction, mental health impacts, and the fine line between recreational enjoyment and harmful excess. Readers are reminded that while personal freedom is important, it should not come at the cost of safety or well-being.
Dear Abby, written by Jeanne Phillips and founded by her mother Pauline Phillips, continues to provide guidance on such complex personal matters, offering a platform for individuals to seek advice on navigating modern challenges.
