A year later I applied to work as a police dispatcher, answering 911 calls and operating a police radio. Because I started the job at such a young age, I wanted to learn and gain experience as quickly as possible. I read every book in the building. I attended every training class that I could. I eventually took on more than my dispatch duties and started training for crime and intelligence analysis.
During this time, Cindy continued to consume cannabis on a regular basis. I didn’t notice any signs of addiction or cause for concern. She seemed to be thriving, despite consuming something that I considered to be harmful. Occasionally Cindy would send me articles about the benefits of cannabis, but I would find ways to dismiss or discredit them.
My original intention was to work as a dispatcher through my college years. Somehow, almost 10 years went by and I still worked there. I had developed a love for my co-workers, and work had become my home.
I was, however, deeply dissatisfied with my job.
I felt undervalued and underpaid, there were ongoing disputes about workplace issues, and I was completely frustrated with my supervisor. I started to plan my escape after hearing one of my co-workers say, “we only have 20 years left until retirement.” I knew I wouldn’t survive another year.
I agreed to Cindy’s proposal, but with reservations. If I tried cannabis, I would be abandoning any chance to return to my old job. And what would I say to my former co-workers, whom I told I was leaving to teach yoga? Many of them were vocal about their views against marijuana. I spent three more months researching and deliberating before trying any cannabis. I enjoyed it, and grew even more excited about starting our business. But now I had a secret that I needed to share with the rest of my friends, family, and former co-workers.
It has now been three years since I quit dispatching, and California is four months away from legal sales of recreational cannabis. I still have great relationships with many of my old co-workers, and even those who once distanced themselves have started warming back up to me. Surprisingly enough, some have asked to learn more about cannabis, out of curiosity to assist with their loved ones’ health.
I took a flying leap of faith going into this business. Currently Cindy and I are struggling to meet our order demand. Every day of 2017 has been spent trying to figure out how to best grow our business, and as we look forward to 2018, our biggest concern is the financial burden of acquiring a business license. Despite the uncertainty, we are confident in what we’ve created. And I won’t be looking back.
Commentary by Leone Posod, the co-founder of Treat Yourself, a female-inclusive cannabis health & wellness brand. Leone left her decade-long career as a police dispatcher to found Treat Yourself with her childhood best friend, Cindy. Together they are on a mission to use Treat Yourself as a way to educate others about how to incorporate cannabis into a healthy lifestyle.
credit:420intel.com
