PLEASE DO NOT READ THIS IF YOU ARE UNINTERESTED IN MY PERSONAL REFLECTIONS ON THE TEXAS SCHOOL SHOOTING.
Though these tragedies happen far too often, they should always be reflected upon anew, giving due thought, compassion, and empathy for the family, friends, and loved ones of those murdered and for the first responders that are called upon to handle the crisis in real-time while it is occurring and handle the devastating aftermath.
We simply can't begin to imagine the pain of loss in such a violent manner, but we can collectively mourn and pray for those involved.
Why these mass shootings occur most often in America must be examined. We are failing in all respects: morally, politically, legally, and as a society and we must do better. An 18-year-old should not be allowed to legally purchase assault weapons and Kevlar protection....period.
A genuine start to addressing these tragedies is in the law; regulating in the strictest manner possible, the ability for citizens to purchase assault weapons. The Second Amendment was most assuredly not enacted to make it as easy as possible for someone who is not even able to legally drink alcohol to purchase firearms. And, please, I am not saying this is the answer to it all. It isn't. Social media and genuine hate that is so easily spewed by so many, video games that feature shooting people, racism, mental health -- the list goes on. But we need to start somewhere.
Yes, I am outside the parameters of my role as Municipal Manager. I am posting this to the people who are my FB friends not to the community at large. I am speaking as a member of our society and a father of two children that prays every day for their health, safety, and success. Let's all collectively mourn this tragedy and reject the notion that it is just another one to add to our collective conscience and rationalize it away.
Peace and love....peace and love!
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