Has any one else noticed the increase in young people smoking? I live almost across the street from a university and a few blocks from another one. This past year or so I have noticed that many of the young people walking in the neighborhood are smoking. A few years this was rare. It is particularly upsetting to see that a majority of the girls are smoking. I am tempted to say something but they will probably laugh and tell me it's not pot so why worry.

Malka, I haven't noticed it the way you have. That may be because I'm not near a college. Or that here in the other LA young people are often very health-conscious (at least I hope they are). Nonetheless it's a disturbing observation and I well understand your reluctance to confront them. I have the same reticence on the occasions when I do see kids lighting up. I think we all need to get over our shyness!