“It is very difficult to go to a meeting and be called a ‘lightweight’ by the other addicts when you are absolutely despondent about what is happening to your life and are trying frantically to get clean.”

– Why Marijuana Anonymous, MA pamphlet

It is indeed very tragic that this belief that marijuana is non-addictive still permeates our society. Anyone who has the disease of addiction has earned a seat in these rooms. Marijuana addiction is often a death of a thousand cuts; it chips away at me until I find myself spiritually bankrupt. Spiritual bankruptcy is common across all addictions. One is no more or less “real.”

Early in sobriety, before I knew MA existed, I would attend meetings of other fellowships and hear stories that frankly sounded nothing like mine. I identified with that “rock bottom” feeling, but I struggled to relate to the details of those stories. I personally was never made to feel unwelcome, but I couldn’t shake the feeling that I was somehow different. I have heard stories of fellow marijuana addicts who were singled out in other meetings, one who was even told to leave. I deserve to feel welcome. The rooms of MA provide a space where I can openly share my stories without fear of ridicule and where I can relate to those around me.

Final thought: Today, I seek community that lifts me up. Today, I know that I am an addict.