deadline #4 wp#1

The “war on drugs,” What has been our governments attempt to bring this war to a close, and what are the future plans? For more than a decade this war has been going on. The government has focused most on the “hard core” drugs, which we would call cocaine, heroin, meth-amphetamines, ecstasy, and harmful others. These drugs have been the cause of many problems and will continue to cause many more. Some peoples view about it is that it’s a hoax and that there is no plan. Others view is that it has been a hard and long road and the governments doing their best. It’s not hard to believe that this war is useless and that we’ve already lost, but with everyday there’s new hope for a decrease in the illegal substance abuse that has been rising in the states.

There are some who believe that this “war” is not important, and a waste of time and money. It’s hard to agree with these ideas. This problem is more important to some people because they have experienced the pain and destruction it’s had on them or someone they know, instead of reading about it. Just recently the government has been putting awareness ads on the radio, T.V., and in magazines to help educate those who are ignorant to this growing epidemic we have. Arizona is a good example of this. You probably have heard or seen the commercials on the Meth Project. It's the project that is bringing Arizona residences aware of the growing problem here. We may not be able to see the effects of what these commercials and ads are having for another few years but i have a feeling we will see a decrease in the use of this drug.

I want to write this paper not only to further educate myself in this problem that is going on around us, but also anyone else who wants to learn more. I think that it’s hard to believe in something that you have little knowledge about. Just recently i had a friend who abused meth-amphetamines, as a result of using this drug he became irrational and a totally different person. A loving, trustworthy, religious person, turned and stole thousands of dollars from family and friends. The thinking that goes on through addicts minds is, "I'm not hurting any one else, and I'm only having a good time." The problem is that drugs effect everything and everyone around you. Those who have problems with drugs often believe they are in total control. They keep spinning to rock bottom with out even realizing whats happening. If the government has ideas that can help those who are struggling or those that may struggle in the future why not listen and support them. I If maybe we know more about it then it could help change the problem. Nothing can ever get done if no one’s willing to try and change it. I also want to look further into the governments plan and how they think the community can help.

I think there are flaws in the governments plans, but also i think it's the smartest I've heard yet. I've seen what can happen to peoples life if they get involved in drugs. I think that learning more and making everyone aware of the problem is the way to go. The government also has the idea that addicts that are arrested don't necessarily go straight to jail. They need help and that's their main purpose. To get the help that people need will help change the problem.

During the next few weeks I will do much research and continue to read about the opinions of others. I will research on government websites and look edu websites as well. I will also use MCC'c resources looking electronically and also checking out books on the topic. The more i learn the more I'll be able to bring my audience to awareness and also educate them and myself about the future plans that the government has in store.