I'm currently taking a sabbatical due to work-related issues (sadly lack of work), that being said, I find myself much more active politically. I have written both my senators, my congresswoman, the governor of my state, and a few LTE's.

What I've encountered is unfortunately a product of the success of "Cheech and Chong". If you don't have short hair and a suit on, you aren't taken seriously.

The reason I truly believe we have the best shot of ever getting marijuana legalized right now is simply the majority of people in this country have tried pot. Some don't admit to it, others simply tried it and decided they didn't like it, but on a whole, the public now admits that marijuana is benign.

I understand the reluctance a person with an active grow might have in asserting themselves politically, that's why it falls on the shoulders of the "straight" guy to be that much louder.

I think the proudest I've ever been is when I got pulled over for "crossing the center line" (yeah right it's because of my Dead stickers on the car) and was asked to consent to a search. I chose to assert my 4th amendment right, knowing there was nothing in the car. The dog came and nothing was found go figure. The cops asked me why when I had a clean vehicle, BECAUSE ITS OUR RIGHT TO NOT BE SEARCHED.

The efforts of the suits is what will really make our efforts come to fruition or I guess I should say make our efforts flower. With that in mind ask yourself, what have you done to help the cause.

/end rant

Just one addendum, anyone who reads this, please consider helping out one of the great organizations that are trying to end the War on (Some) Drugs. Norml, MPP, MAPS, SSDP, DPN, these are all great organizations and they deserve our support.