Yesterday, waking to another mass shooting in the US, now bringing the total to 23 separate incidents in 2023. The prevailing sentiment of dismay and sadness for those who lose their lives senselessly is quickly followed by the question ‘why?’
Why has this become a way of life? Why are individuals resorting to mass killings to express themselves? Why? Why?
The issue is more complicated than accessibility to guns. Is it more so of our failings as a society? While we have greater access to things and opportunities than at any point in civilization,we have lost track of the fundamental element that makes it all worthwhile. People.
Our obsession with accumulating material objects and wealth is more significant than our desire to create happy, harmonious, caring relationships, which result in better communities where others belong.
Few intently make building better caring relationships an objective or goal. Instead, we focus on profit, efficiency, size, and more. We may even talk about culture in organizations, but what do we do? We implement programs, create workshops, and send newsletters. These are helpful but none more vital than the simple small gestures we can share daily.
The simple salutation and ‘how are you .’Taking the time to listen to someone. All too often, individuals work side by side for months and know little to nothing about each other. What may we be able to create by smiling at the stranger or asking someone if they require assistance?
We have no idea what others are experiencing, nor should we assume. Hence, the material elements we emphasize as important may not feature for others when all they seek is a little connection. Of course, this is not the answer to our troubled society, but when is a kinder, more caring environment not an excellent place to start?
And we should not become so complacent to think that mass shootings are an acceptable occurrence in our society.
