Hmm, good question. Well, it's illegal where I'm from sadly, which I suppose is a bit of a reason in itself, but it makes it hard to get a hold of. But also my parents would disapprove if they knew. Which isn't a big deal, but it doesn't help I guess (I'm 19, still living at home).

I don't think too many (if any?) of my close friends smoke, so I guess there's not much encouraging me to start. I did try once years ago and it wasn't too special, but I don't really give that experience much weight, as there were perhaps many factors leading me to not find that much of an experience.

I don't drink either. And I used to drink, back when I was 14 (I know...). I didn't think that was too great either, so I decided to stop. Does this run slightly counter to my arguments for not smoking? Probably (i.e. it was also illegal for me to drink age 14, and my parents would not have approved).

But research showing that marijuana isn't a gateway drug, and the fact that it's a lot safer than alcohol does make it seem that trying it wouldn't be a bad plan.

This last reason is very stupid, but for some reason in my head I'm always automatically opposed to anything that's purely designed to mood-alter. It's slightly irrational, but I always think "I shouldn't need that to have a good time". I know, it's stupid, but it's there.

Thanks for asking!