I’m a medical doctor who is dedicated to his profession and family.

After a long day of work I usually unwind with a cup of coffee and good conversation.

There are times and patients that remain with you long after you have left them or in some cases after they have left you. Sometimes you want to forget, sometimes remember but most importantly reflect and to relax I sometimes smoke marijuana.

None of the so called LEGAL options do it for me… I don’t gamble, I don’t drink alcohol nor do I wish to take so called calming medication. I don’t choose the “man made”cigarettes, I choose the plant that grows naturally all over the world.

It’s never been a gateway drug to me nor has it led me to want to experiment with any harder drugs. I’ve smoked occasionally from the age of 16, right through my matric year and through medical school and up to the present day.

I don’t have green fingers so unfortunately I can’t grow my own but I do know a Rasta who sells openly at a public safe environment clothing amongst other items.

I bought cannabis from him for R100 and as I was walking to my car I was approached by 3 policeman who inquired if I had anything illegal with me. I admitted that I had weed for personal use and consumption. Despite that I was quoted section 140 and act so and so and after being searched, finger printed and subsequently arrested and thrown into a cell with common criminals who were there for rape, murder and house breaking amongst other things.

Ironically 3 other people were also arrested for buying from the same Rasta. An under 19 sharks rugby player and a successful entrepreneur car salesman…

While the Rasta remained free !!

My question is Why arrest the user and not the dealer?

I now have a criminal record and this now affects my entire professional career.

I feel very aggrieved and I’m not sure if it’s rightly deserved or not.

Public opinion please??