November, 1968. It was unlike anything I'd experienced before, and I liked it a lot. I was an aspiring musician, and soon found myself listening to all kinds of music I'd never been interested in before, especially symphonic and acoustic guitar. Started as an attempt to learn more about music in general, but that led to enjoyment and a higher level of open mindedness. I found that the increased interest led to more focused and intensified efforts in my creative work, which yielded a lot of satisfaction, which intensified my interest, etc. It also seemed that there were a lot more creative and interesting people in the subculture, and that widened my social horizons as well. I guess I'm saying that getting stoned was a catalyst for positive changes in my development, especially as an alternative to drinking.

Now, years later, all the same reasons apply, plus all the positive associations connected, conscious and otherwise. The aroma is now as pleasant to me as the way your house smells when there's a turkey, roast, bread, etc. cooking in the oven. I freed myself from connections with dealers many years ago; grow my own, and have no desire to either buy or sell. I like the independance that gives me, and enjoy the gardening too.

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