GENETIC PREDISPOSITION TO WRITING LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

THE DEMAND FOR DRUGS


Filling addicts' spiritual void
April 2, 2009

Filling addicts' spiritual void

KARL MARX once said that religion was the opiate of the people. In his March 30 op-ed, Roland Merullo is saying that drugs are the opiate of the people.

Perhaps what people seek in drugs is relief from the fact that they are missing the essential facets of human self-actualization. People look for work that is creative and useful, human dignity, a cultural heritage that is inclusive and not exclusive, a sense of community, values that are not all materially based, empathy instead of shame and blame toward others, and emotionally healthy self-expression.

Since neither capitalism nor communism has been able to support these values, Americans still do drugs. Many find a healthy alternative in houses of worship, which can substitute Spirit for spirits. For nonchurchgoers, where is the hope? I have experienced these things both in faith communities and in social justice communities, in artistic circles, and in face-to-face gatherings such as writing groups and book clubs. Whatever connects us as humans can help to address that lonely spot that drives people to various addictions.

Marcia Deihl
Cambridge


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