Overall it sounds like your experiences were much more positive than mine, though.
Even if you think you consumed a small amount, it may have been more than you could handle, especially if you are comparing it to what is consumed by somebody who has built up a tolerance. As the article says, some of what's out there is very potent.
I've smoked on and off since 14. I used to just feel kind of out of it and relaxed. It's not something I can do anymore, and not something that I miss.
Nothing to be fascinated about. The experience is different primarily from the type of strain they have inhaled or ingested.
Sativa only strain - High, euphoria, very social
Indica only strain - Sleepy, lethargic, somewhat anti-social
Sativa dominant Sativa-Indica hybrid - Not so high, still little euphoric, smooth come down after few hours.
Indica dominant Indica-Sativa hybrid - Not so sleepy / lethargic, little euphoric...
And then there's the CBD dominant ones which don't get you high, and supposedly cure you of various illnesses. Not FDA approved.
I've tried a lot of different kinds of pot (it's all legal in the PNW) and I've never experienced the good feelings other folks I know do. It's just not pleasant for me, and it's a little grating to have to repeat this to my pot advocate friends; great that you get something out of it, but the reaction to my experiences that I just haven't tried the right kind is frustrating.