Opinion: Two significant dates, today and Monday

Today is April 20, known in a specific subculture as 420, and Monday, April 22, is Earth Day. Both have interesting back stories and effects on our way of life. The former is viewed by many people as an enjoyable “unofficial holiday.” The latter seems to be less joyous, but it has existential consequences.

420

There are a few myths associated with the reason that April 20 has become associated with the fact that 24 states, the District of Columbia, and Guam have legalized the recreational use of marijuana. One myth is that “420” was a police code for “marijuana smoking in progress,” like 187 stands for “homicide.” 

Another myth is far more complicated. Bob Dylan is a song writer and performer who was a key celebrity associated with the Hippie Era and an advocate for the legalization of marijuana. Some “stoners” cite Dylan’s song, “Rainy Day Women #12 & 35” as the inspiration for a day devoted to the celebration of marijuana. Why? Well, 12 times 35 is 420. I think that this conclusion could only make sense to one who was already “stoned.”