Another deadly shooting at a school in the United States. Again-the senseless, horrific killing of young children in a place that should be a safe sanctuary. It is not new, and sadly it has become a regular occurrence.
The outpouring of emotions from families and fellow students who survived and will endure immense irreversible trauma, is heart-wrenching. In support, there is a rush of messages from well-meaning politicians and leaders condoning the shootings and offering their thoughts and prayers.
‘Thoughts and prayers.’ As fantastic as they may appear, how does that change anything? What will it take for those same leaders of topical organizations and politicians to act? To eradicate needless gun violence once and for all? Yes, parents and teachers are outraged at the tragedy. They believe not enough is being done. And they are correct. Nothing of substance or actual value is done after these regular tragedies except thought.
Approximately a third of households in the US own a gun, with over fifty percent claiming it is for personal protection. Where is the politician who says that their campaign will ride on the radical change of gun laws? With over fifty percent of Americans wanting stricter gun laws, is that not enough support? Yet, those politicians do not take that stance for fear of reprisal from opposing factions. Would that change if their children were in those classrooms?
Do we not have an obligation to do what is right for our children? For all of our children. Today it may be someone else, but like most elements that gain momentum, it is only a matter of time until it impacts someone close to us. What will it take for leaders to be … leaders?
