I don’t need weed; Jesus is my ultimate high

 

Well, now that 4/20 has come to a close and the Advocate’s weed issue has come and gone, I will attempt to offer a counter and rather unpopular viewpoint.  Now, if I wanted to smoke marijuana, I easily could. I have a few connections and so do most people. So why don’t I try it? Besides having a family history of schizophrenia, I would say that I have a legitimate reason not to.

Concerning my personality type, people usually sense my peaceful, laid-back and seemingly “un-offendable” attitude. I’m not always like that, but it’s a euphoric feeling to walk the streets and have all the negative forces pass harmlessly beneath you.

What accounts for this? It’s certainly not myself or any particular substance. It’s Jesus.

Oh no! Not another freaky, snake-holding, speaking-in-tongues, faith-healing, Bible-thumping freak!!!

Well, don’t worry. I’m not here to preach to you. I don’t intend to, at least. I’m just simply here to inform the world what religious people and people who do drugs – assuming pot is a type of drug – have in common. Also, why Christians like myself refrain from using pot (aside from the usual, dry excuse of it being illegal).

People who get high – as well as people who worship God – realize that reality isn’t just what is confined to physics and the eyes. There is something grander, something mysterious about life and some of us desire to find that fulfillment.

Think about it. Now, I’m not trying to patronize people who use drugs or smoke, but some become chemically dependent on substances when they’ve hit their lowest point in life. They’ve sunk into the crevices of the darkest valley. That valley doesn’t have to be treacherous – they could be just wandering aimlessly with no clear path.

Now, when does the Psalmist call upon the Lord?

Most seek God in the same way some seek drugs. We know there is a hole in us and we know we need to fill it with something bigger and something that can achieve the things we can’t.

But how is Jesus different, or especially in my case, better than marijuana? For one, Jesus doesn’t cost money. Jesus doesn’t wear off so long as I’m seeking him. Jesus does not harm my lungs or inhibit my intellect.

While drugs are often an escape or a release, spiritual life is a fulfillment. It creates purpose inside and Christ attributes divine meaning to every aspect of my life. This is different than trying to dilute the burden of life with any substance.

Another thing: if I were to receive my high from pot or any other drug for that matter, I’m using it in place of God, which in a sense is idolatry.

If I weren’t a Christian, you can bet your balls I would be smoking pounds of grass a day. That’s not to say I crave weed, however, it’s probably something I’d turn to if I did not know God. Coming before God in prayer, feeling the power of heavenly energy exuding from the souls in a worship service, gathering divine insights – is more than enough for me.

I would consider myself a mystic, like that of St. Teresa of Avila and St. Francis of Assisi. I’m more about the connection to the creator and sustainer of all things above, versus judging and criminalizing things and beings below. So please, don’t feel like I’m against you or trying to belittle you – regardless of what you do with marijuana or anything for that matter.

I believe there is a spiritual world that connects to us on a metaphysical level. Just because one is not in tune with their spirituality does not mean that all assertions of religion or a higher power are void of reason.

“But God made Marijuana, therefore it’s perfectly okay to smoke it.” I wish that argument confirmed the recreational use for marijuana for me, but there’s this passage in Galatians: “For the flesh desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit what is contrary to the flesh. They are in conflict with each other, so that you are not to do whatever you want.”

Several other passages in the Bible tell Christians to be of sober mind.

Certainly, marijuana has its healing purposes for countless ailments. All drugs change the psyche and sometimes it’s needed.

It’s just that I must choose what to get high from: heavenly things or earthly things. Although, I may not choose “two masters.”

I’ve referenced a bunch of religious hype for sure, but if there’s one thing I want you to take away from this column, it’s this: We Christians should not look at stoners with disgrace, because we are more alike in spirit than we give each other credit for.