Yep, yep, yep! I agree so much with this post! Just like with everything else, the common negative stereotypes against drug users are so awful. You can't put people in boxes!

I really don't understand why our society sees drug use as something that should be punished. Especially when considering that some drugs are punishing enough with their addictive properties! To me, the desire to feel good or better (the basic root of all drug use) does not equate to a bad person or bad morals! It is really backwards.

I'm not promoting drug use, but would like to point out how humans have used substances for centuries! It is our nature. And plenty of "drugs" can be used in modesty to enhance our lives: coffee, cannabis, kratom, psychedelics, etc. And that isn't just limited to the "natural" substances.

It's so horrible to think about a heroine addict (for example) having to detox in jail, and probably get really harsh treatment. The pain and suffering certainly doesn't help anyone, and sitting in a jail cell certainly doesn't address any underlying psychological issues that may have led to drug use.

Decriminalization is definitely the way to go and I think we are moving towards that! Getting rid of these archaic views is so overdue!

Really good post, very important conversation to get started wherever you can!