Like many couples, Kindred Sparks has her share of complaints in her marriage to Peter Pietrangeli. However, their grievances are unique because they involve marijuana use. With the legalization of recreational marijuana in over 20 states, it has become as normal as having a glass of wine for some people. But as it enters mainstream society, there is a lack of clarity around the rules of its usage, causing disruption in many relationships.

Sparks and Pietrangeli have firsthand experience with the changing attitudes toward marijuana. They previously owned a cannabis dispensary in California and currently work for a cannabis company in New York. Sparks started using marijuana at a young age, but after experiencing panic attacks, she stopped while her husband continued to be involved in the cannabis industry.

Throughout their 14-year marriage, Sparks has struggled with her husband’s marijuana use. She found it difficult to trust him with tasks like grocery shopping when he was stoned. Pietrangeli eventually cut back on his marijuana use and now only indulges after Sparks has gone to bed, which has created a compromise that works for both of them.

Tules Yegin, a woman from Brooklyn, has also witnessed the impact of cannabis on relationships. Her first marriage ended partly due to her ex-husband’s excessive marijuana use. However, during the pandemic, Yegin had a change of heart after trying cannabis herself. It helped alleviate her symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and her current husband is supportive of her cannabis use.

Amber Lee, CEO of a matchmaking firm, has seen the issue of recreational cannabis use arise more frequently among her clients. Communication is key in navigating this issue within relationships. Partners need to openly express their preferences and find compromises if one person doesn’t enjoy cannabis use.

Laura and Todd Rosales, a couple from Florida, have had their share of disagreements about cannabis. Laura, a psychologist, and Todd, who works in the financial industry serving the cannabis industry, have differing views on marijuana. Todd sees it as a bonding experience, while Laura abstains. Despite their differences, they have found a balance by allowing Todd to use marijuana outside the house.

Overall, couples are grappling with how to incorporate cannabis into their lives without causing strife. Open communication, compromise, and respecting each other’s preferences seem to be essential in finding harmony in these situations.