Canna-Father
Oh the journey. Yes, I said “journey”. Those of you that know, know. Those of you that don’t, well… let’s just say that there’s no way to crack the code of this algorithm. When I look at my nine-year-old son, I see a reflection of myself. He is a bright, curious, and energetic boy whose life is just beginning to unfold. Our bond is strong, shaped by shared moments and the lessons we’ve learned together. Yet, our story is not just about father and son. This is a story about a father who navigates the world of parenting as a “pothead”.
My journey with cannabis began long before I became a father. Although I've only been in the cannabis industry for six years, I have been a proponent and advocate of its legalization since my teenage years. My relationship with cannabis is not solely professional. It is deeply personal. Cannabis has played a critical role in my health, helping me manage overwhelming anxiety, and most importantly, contributing to my sobriety and the improvement of my liver health.
Five years ago, my life took a bit of a dramatic turn. I was an alcoholic for most of my life, a reality that caught up with me when my liver crashed. Facing this life-threatening condition was a wake-up call. It was then that I turned to heavier cannabis use not just as a medicine, but as a lifeline. Remarkably, since incorporating heavier cannabis into my wellness routine, my liver disease has subsided, and I have maintained my sobriety. Cannabis gave me a second chance at life, and for that, I am profoundly grateful.
Parenting as a “pothead” comes with its own set of challenges and stigmas. Society often holds preconceived notions about cannabis use, particularly when it comes to parenting. These misconceptions can be amazingly frustrating, but I have always been transparent with my son about my cannabis use. Age-appropriate honesty has been my guiding principle. I’ve explained to him that cannabis is a medicine that helps me, much like the medications others might take for their health conditions. I’ve even gone over some of the risks that I myself believe could arise if he were to be a little too curious. But, that’s another story.
Our relationship has grown stronger through these open conversations. My son understands that cannabis is a part of my wellness routine, and this understanding fosters a deeper trust between us. He knows that I use it responsibly and that my primary focus is always on being the best father I can be.
Balancing my roles as a father, cannabis patient, and business owner is a delicate act. There are days when the demands of running Herbage Magazine, coupled with my personal health challenges, feel overwhelming. Yet, the moments I spend with my son remind me why I do what I do. Whether we are exploring Oklahoma’s beautiful landscapes, indulging in our shared love for entertainment, or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, these experiences anchor me.
One of our favorite ways to connect is through video games. He recently gifted me a virtual reality headset to match his Oculus for Father’s Day. We plan to spend hours immersed in virtual worlds, strategizing and laughing together. It's a space where we can bond and enjoy each other's company. We often find ourselves simply talking about things we are both interested in, sharing thoughts and dreams that bring us closer.
We also enjoy golfing together, although not heavily. It’s a pleasant way to hang out, get some fresh air, and have light-hearted conversations. On the golf course, I am not just a father or a cannabis patient. I am his partner in play. These moments of joy and connection are what I look forward to most.
My journey with cannabis has also influenced my approach to fatherhood in unexpected ways. It has taught me the importance of mindfulness, patience, and empathy. Cannabis has a way of slowing down the chaos of life, allowing me to appreciate the small, precious moments with my son. It has helped me to listen more, to be more present, and to cultivate a deeper sense of understanding and compassion.
As I look to the future, I want to continue advocating for cannabis, not just as a medicine, but as a means to improve the quality of life for countless individuals. Through Herbage Magazine, I aim to share stories that break down the stigmas surrounding cannabis, especially those that affect families and parents like myself.
In a world that often rushes by, my son reminds me to slow down and savor the journey. And in the gentle embrace of fatherhood, I find my purpose and my peace.
