I was present the first time my two best friends tried cocaine. They encouraged me to participate in their experimentation – I refused – but quietly observed their reactions to the drugs supposed “euphoric” effects. The following weekend, the same scenario presented itself; again, I refused and noticed how eager they were to partake in the drug again. Something about their level of anxiousness was unsettling; almost as if they were being driven to the drug by strange, unseen forces beyond their control. Control? Oh, yes, of course my friends proclaimed that they were in complete control of the drug – they would never become addicted!
With each passing weekend, my friends appeared to be increasingly eager to begin the night earlier and stay out later. I began to notice how much money they were expending to acquire the drugs and the increased level of alcohol consumption that appeared to compliment their cocaine habit – yes – a habit was forming. Of course, I tried to bring my observations to their attention, but my pleas were met with strong resistance. “I am in control!” they proclaimed. It was clear to me (observing...