DEA: 0, Religious Fringe: 1

[schmosef]

In what is surely a victory for both relgious freedom and washed out hippies, the US Supreme Court has declared that a small church in New Mexico may use hallucinogenic tea as part of a 4-hour ritual to connect with God.

So, uh, Judaism, you've been good to me and all, but, really, I don't think I've connected like I should... Let's just remember the good times, ok? Look, it's not you, it's... well, yeah, it's you.

God Bless the USA.

(source)

[Umfriend]

I don't see why "religion" is a valid reason to allow drugs while "freedom" is not. If it is allowed, it should be allowed for all (save for kids without parental consent).

[schmosef]

From a comment to the blog entry where this is from:

Ayahuasca truly induces a Transcendental experience. It really takes a person out of their egoselves to the realm of the higher self(the spiritual self)-- to the spiritual realm. Communion with The Great Power Composed of PURE LOVE(by whatever name you would prefer to call It) is directly experienced firsthand. It is a very profound and deeply personal communion between the conscious and the unconscious, where personal baggage, phobias, and fears of a lifetime can be finally delt with and resolved -- with the direct presence and guiding hand of The Higher Power Composed Of PURE LOVE. You are shown directly the aspects and imperfections of the self that need to grow. The path to "enlightenment" can be seen, but can also be blocked by also seen personal imperfections. The "big life lessons" you are meant to learn in this lifetime become perceived. This is not a recreational experience to be put face to face with all of your life's deepest and darkest issues -- but IS a powerful life-learning experience that can leave a person feeling much happier due to having issues resolved and no longer carrying the weight of a lifetime of stressful "baggage" on your shoulders. It is an experience that provides a direct personal firsthand communion with the Essence of The Higher Power.
It is a serious and powerful spiritual experience and for this reason could not be enjoyed recreationally.

So you, being a non believer, just wouldn't be able to appreciate the experience. Be thankful that the US government is looking out for your best interests on the issue.

[TnT]

Peyote use has always been allowed for Native Americans because it is part of their culture. It's use outside of that is illegal.

Not to deride anyone's beliefs, but personally I think if you need chemical influence to see or understand whatever higher realm you are supposed to perceive then it isn't real. I've always agreed with the more Buddhist/Taoist philosophy of the power of the mind to free itself.