War on drugs

In reply to Bob Wynhausen's letter of April 14th, I agree with Bob. The war on drugs has been a dismal failure. In the past 35 years, we have sinfully wasted over a billion dollars trying to save people from their own weaknesses and recklessness. And I agree that more should be spent on adoption education and funding. Why not cut some funding from the failing drug war and compensate functional adults financially to adopt? Adoption reform is where our churches and government have failed society.

But I disagree with Bob when it comes to funding rehabilitation. How long do we breast-feed those who won't accept personal responsibility for their own actions? Drug use is destructive behavior, whether legalized or not. Why should I support someone who refuses to accept the fact that "life is not fair nor easy?" I'm not addressing the person who becomes medically addicted to percodan after surgery or a long painful illness. I'm addressing the type that just want to feel good all the time and have me provide that feeling. Just think how much funding we could provide for adoption reform and other vital social services if we weren't breast-feeding every dysfunctional drug addict.

I also disagree with Bob when it comes to legalization. There is nothing socially redeeming about drug use whether legal or otherwise. Legalization doesn't solve the social destruction or moral dilemma. It only handcuffs law enforcement by taking them out of this complicated equation. What is needed in the war on drugs is a logical approach that requires all of us in society to take personal responsibility for our actions during and after drug abuse.

This letter by Bob is a scary wake up call to all of us. First because his statistics are correct and second because I agree with Bob on something. Those that know both of us that is a real wake up call.

BILL LITSINGER

Sagle