[imagesource: Eric Schmid / St Louis Public Radio]

We all have our coping mechanisms, and many of those are going to be well and truly tested over the next 21 days of national lockdown.

Whilst it is vital that we stay informed, using trusted resources and outlets, healthcare professionals do recommend limiting the amount of news you watch and read, in order to allow your mind to ‘switch off’ for periods of the day.

Around the world, we’re also beginning to realise just which workers and industries are essential, and it’s becoming clear that this is marijuana’s time to shine.

In fact, as Forbes points out, “never has it been more clear… that marijuana has arrived at the forefront of mainstream American society”:

In state after state, governors and public health officials are deeming cannabis businesses “essential” operations that can stay open amid coronavirus-related forced closures and stay-at-home mandates. People might not be able to go bowling or see a movie in theaters, but they can still stock up on marijuana.

It wasn’t long ago that anyone growing and selling marijuana faced the risk of being arrested, prosecuted and jailed. But now, in the era of expanding legalization, cannabis providers in many states are held up as vital members of the community who are providing a valuable service on par with picking up prescription drugs at a pharmacy or filling up your car at a gas station.

Shine on, you beautiful diamond.

Given that it has been decriminalised for personal and private use here in South Africa, we hope you’ve managed to grow your own at home.

Just remember that there are limits on how much you can grow for ‘personal use’, so bear that in mind.

You can’t leave the house to jog or walk the dog, and the same goes for buying (or delivering) zol.

Back to the US, and how this massive shift in mindset is unfolding during the pandemic:

In some states, officials have enacted new temporary policies such as expanded delivery services or curbside pickup that make it easier for consumers to get their hands on marijuana while respecting social distancing measures.

Others are allowing doctors to issue medical cannabis recommendations via telemedicine instead of requiring that they conduct in-person examinations.

It is really heartening to see, in many countries around the world, people waking up to the fact that criminalising this plant is nothing short of abject stupidity.

Closer to home, I would imagine a few weed dealers were busy with deliveries yesterday, in the hours before our national lockdown was enacted.

That time has come and gone, though – now it’s time to #StayHomeSouthAfrica.

[source:forbes]