What gets me is...why is there such a push to be above the influence? Why is it imperative to never try marijuana or even other drugs? When did curiousity become a negative thing?

At least in my opinion...I believe it's healthy to be curious in life, and if you want to see what the deal is about something, better off trying it yourself, rather than standing in the middle while 2 sides try to pull you left or right.

If I went through life never trying weed or other drugs or getting wasted beyond recognition a few times, or partying recklessly, I know for a fact I would eventually regret it...I think getting high and experimenting are part of life [at least for some part of your life], and are similar to other experiences in which one might ponder. But since the label 'drugs' is applied...it's considered bad to be curious?

I would question myself and my live if I DIDN'T live it up and experience what I have experienced with weed, alcohol, pre-marital sex, and drugs...I would feel as if I missed out on a big part of living to the fullest. But, that's just me.