1. Cannabis and Christian Faith: A Delicate Balance

What the Bible Says (and Doesn’t Say)

The Bible doesn’t mention cannabis directly, but principles like moderation (Proverbs 25:16), self-control (Galatians 5:22-23), and responsible stewardship of creation (Genesis 1:29) provide guidance. Faith invites us to approach all things thoughtfully, seeking wisdom and understanding rather than clinging to assumptions.

A Personal Reflection

Growing up as the son of a Jamaican father, I was often assumed to be a cannabis user simply because of my heritage. This assumption infuriated me. As a bi-racial individual, I already struggled with self-identity issues, and being raised in a very strict Christian household, I truly believed cannabis use was wicked.

It wasn’t until my mid-30s, when I became a stepfather to a teenage son who insisted on smoking weed despite every punishment I could think of, that I had to take a step back and re-evaluate my perspective. Eventually, I decided to try cannabis myself, not as rebellion but to better understand my son’s truth—why he felt it was something he needed in his life.

What I discovered was surprising: for the first time in decades, I experienced peace. Cannabis helped me confront undiagnosed PTSD and repressed anger. This isn’t an endorsement but a reflection of how faith and personal growth can come through unexpected experiences.

2. Cannabis 101: Facts Every Family Should Know

Types of Cannabis

• THC: The psychoactive compound that creates the “high.”
• CBD: Non-psychoactive, often used for relaxation or therapeutic purposes.

Health Considerations

For Adolescents and Young Adults: Studies show cannabis use before age 21 can negatively affect brain development, including areas responsible for memory, attention, and learning (Canadian Paediatric Society). Regular use is strongly discouraged until the brain is fully developed.

For Adults: While cannabis can relieve stress and pain, overuse may lead to dependency or exacerbate mental health challenges.

3. Parenting in a Cannabis-Positive World

Opening the Conversation

Engage in honest discussions with your children. Questions like “What do you know about cannabis?” or “Why are you curious about it?” foster open communication.

Recognizing Signs of Misuse

• Increased irritability or secrecy.
• Decline in school or work performance.

Leading by Example

If you use cannabis, model responsible behavior by setting boundaries, practicing moderation, and being mindful of its impact on family dynamics.

4. Navigating Perceptions and Legal Realities

The Evolving Perception of Cannabis

Cannabis is no longer tied to outdated stereotypes, but stigma persists. Open communication can bridge understanding between differing perspectives.

Legal Realities

Laws vary widely:

• Some regions allow recreational use; others only permit medical use or prohibit it entirely.
• Crossing borders with cannabis, even legally purchased, can lead to serious legal consequences.

Practical tips include researching local laws, storing cannabis securely, and being aware of workplace policies.

5. High Hopes: A Journey Toward Understanding

Through faith and reflection, I’ve learned that understanding and empathy are key to navigating the complexities of cannabis use. By balancing personal growth with informed decisions, we can find peace and clarity in an ever-changing world.