Parents and Patients
How many parents are medical patients?
I wonder how many Connecticut patients in the medical marijuana program are parents. The false stereotype I was raised to accept would lead you to believe that very few responsible parents would entertain the idea of smoking cannabis. In the beginning of Dabbin Dad, there were a few off-comments that questioned why a parent would be proud to dab. Dabbin Dad embodies everything that proves cannabis stereotypes false: we are responsible, professional, motivated, socially active in the community and knowledgeable of the plant to start. We all know a few parents that might take a puff every now and then, but how many parents treat cannabis as a medicine and consume daily.
When do you find time medicate?
Personally, knowing my limits and being responsible is my guide. With my long-term approach to cannabis, I have learned a lot along the way from others. Always remember why you medicate with cannabis. Occasionally, I reassess my cannabis consumption or take a “tolerance break.” While doing so I evaluate what my needs and goals are and the course needed to achieve them. One skill any parent learns is planning. Every parent wants the best for their children. In order to provide for my children, I need to be there, always keeping their interest in mind. I want to support my children and always be there, for this I medicate. I medicate daily so I can have a standard quality of life, so I don’t waste the precious gift of life. I hope to make a difference in my life time, to do something larger than myself and to make a better future. According to the stereotypes I can’t do that because I choose cannabis. Little do they know, I don’t sit on my couch and stare at the television. Cannabis stimulates my desire to achieve more and I can assure you there are others like me.
Time is paramount.
One reason I enjoy concentrates is the ease and direct delivery of the medication. While I enjoy sitting back to smoke a nice flavorful joint just to relax and socialize, this is not a reality for me on a daily basis. Life is too busy and I need to maintain life balance. My oldest child is starting to get inquisitive. She knows not to open the office door when it’s closed and daddy is medicating. It is time to start educating and addressing her questions. This is an exciting time in history, possibly my children will grow up in a society that is accepting of this plant for its medical and responsible recreational uses. It all starts at home and I plan to educate my children to have an open mind.
Some questions you may what to think about:
Why do you leave to take your medicine?
Why does it smell strange?
Why don’t you take medicine in liquid or pill form?
How does it help you?
If you have questions or need advice, please leave a comment. There are resources available to help parents deal with the changing social view of cannabis. One great organizational resource I support is Parents 4 Pot and their local chapter in Connecticut. Make sure to check out their resource information, I might be looking for an educational book for kids soon.
-Dad
