I haven't been on this web-site in a couple years now, but I had heard that some things were being said about some people I know and care about, so I thought I'd check it out.
Personally, I have no desire to make anyone right or wrong here. I'm a long-time graduate of AARC, over ten years now. I am not an AARC staff member, although I was at one point. I've spent a lot of time with many of the people who have been mentioned on this site; Jen C(S), Mini-Vause (P.S.), Dr. Vause and even B#$@n N@#l. I have to say... all great people! In fact, I've even spent time with some of the people I know disagree with the concepts of AARC on this site, including M#$n#! and J#$s$$@. I always thought they were great people when I knew them too! I understand how people can have some of the perceptions that they do, that's okay with me. I've been around long enough though to know that not everything that has been said on this website is factual. I associate with many people outside of AARC and I do understand that everyone has different perceptions. I don't understand though, why a program that has obviously helped so many young people improve their lives is being debated and criticized so much. What I've seen over the years is that AARC is only getting stronger and more healthy as an organization. The program has over 250 graduates now, it's been accredited, has 5 or 6 clinical staff members educated with related degrees, and is well supported within the community. I think the continuous results speak for themselves.
As for myself, life is good. It continually improves every year. I have an education, a great job and amazing people in my life. What more could I ask for? I've had so many succeses and done so many things over the past 10 years that I never thought I would/could. On this site, I've heard people agrue about how great pot is and, to each their own I guess. You're right, many normal people out there do it everyday. Personally, I can find better things to do with my time. And no, I'm not going to meetings daily, drinking coffee or smoking to fill my time - I'm more creative than that. I guess, maybe I'm just one of those people whose life has changed so much, that the results of AARC speak for itself. Don't get me wrong, it hasn't all been from AARC, but that's definately where it started.
Also, in Jen's defence, she's a good person - let her be. Oh,... and as an ex-staff member, I thought I'd mention that I'm actually functioning rather well in the "real world"! :wink: