Did the Writer Not Appreciate the American Spirit?

The profile of Woody Harrelson (“Becoming a Man,” by Bob Sipchen, Dec. 20) points up the significant gulf between two opposing views. In the process, Sip-chen reveals as much about himself as about Harrelson.

The writer unintentionally crystalizes the unbridgeable chasm between conformity and the quintessentially American spirit.

John Crandell

Westwood

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I was impressed that Harrelson would admit that he used marijuana to help deal with stress and that his intention was to quit using the drug and live in a “natural way.”

I could relate to his inner conflict because I, in trying to cope, smoked pot for 19 years on a daily basis. I was able to stop smoking periodically, but I had no idea how to avoid starting up again when the drama of life got heavy.

But along the way I discovered a 12-step program called Marijuana Anonymous, with a mission to help anyone with a desire to stop smoking pot. That organization, staffed by a host of loving, supportive ex-potheads, has helped me to live a sober, marijuana-free life for the last four years.

I’m writing to pass along a message of hope: that there is life without dope, that there is help for Harrelson or anyone else who desires to change.

To contact Marijuana Anonymous, telephone (800) 766-6779 for information about meetings, or call up the Internet address https:/www.marijuana-anonymous.org to bring up the organization’s home page.

E. Page

Los Angeles