'How to Read Literature Like a Professor'

 " What about the dope they smoke afterwards?

    Passing a joint doesn't quite resemble the wafer and the chalice, does it? But thinking symbolically, where's the difference, really? Please note, I am not suggesting that illicit drugs are required to break down social barriers. On the other hand, here is a substance they can take into their bodies in a shared, almost ritualistic experience. Once again, the act says, 'I'm with you, I share this moment with you, I feel a bond of community with you.' It may be a moment of even greater trust. In any case, the alcohol at supper and the marijuana after combine to relax the narrator so he can receive the full force of his insight, so he can share in the drawing of a cathedral (which, incidentally, is a place of communion)."

  ~ Thomas C. Foster, How to Read Literature Like a Professor, page 11 

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My summary of this whole paragraph would be that, so far, it seems to be the most far-fetched paragraph in the book. Although he did make it clear that illicit drugs are NOT required to break down social barriers, he did imply that illicit drugs are a good way to do that. I am against this, for the most part because drugs are hard on your body and illegal drugs are illegal for good reasons, but also because there are MUCH better ways to break the ice with someone you want to know better, or come closer to. Personally, drugs are only good for when you want to ruin your life, spend it in jail, or ruin someone else's life. So how DO you come closely acquainted with fellow man? There are many different ways aimed for different age groups. Young girls have friendship bracelets, or buy the same shoes at the same place,and the same time. Boys ride bikes or four-wheelers together, or wear the same shirts to school. Older women bond through a shared cup of coffee, or a special trip. Men enjoy eating together, or watching live college football (or both at the same time) 

But drinking and smoking illegal drugs, seriously? That's NOT what I would refer to as communion.