Once Again

Once again the country is in complete shock over ANOTHER school shooting (18 this year!!)

Once again the general populace rushes to assumptions about mental health issues as the center for the “blame.”

 Let’s be clear: People with Mental Health issues are far more likely to be victims rather than to victimize. The association of Autism Spectrum conditions to Mental Illness is erroneous. Many states have enacted laws precluding those with mental illness from acquiring guns (this issue is hotly debated in light, partially to the two previous statements). Many states have NOT adopted laws making it more difficult for ANYONE to acquire weapons including semi-automatics.

Until we understand that it is access to weapons that is central to the issue, we must all assume some degree of culpability for the horrific acts that unfold before us from Columbine to Sandy Hook, from Las Vegas to Broward County, Florida.

Until we become proactive to help those in (who are reaching out for help from us), PROACTIVELY addressing their needs and the needs of safety in the community, we must all share part of the “blame” for the horrific results.

Our memories are too short. By weeks end we will be back to our routine. The lives of those who were in that school or at that concert, the lives of everyone they know and the entire community – indeed the entire world – are forever changed.

How can we possibly hold so strongly to the tenets protected under the right to bear arms and cling ever so tenuously to the principles of a free education? For, as we see, these two concepts, so deeply ingrained in all of us, are increasingly at odds with each other. For the sake of our children, it is clear which principle must prevail.

Life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness are the true tenets that this country was founded upon. These principles hold more meaning today than ever. However, not only life and liberty but, certainly, the pursuit of happiness has been irrevocably stolen from 17 American Citizens in Florida as well as their friends and families. On some level, it has been stolen from us all.