What is the PROBLEM?

The recent all too familiar school shooting incident resulting in loss of lives, grieving students, families, communities is yet another reminder that there is still an unresolved problem. Is it the failure to pass?appropriate gun control legislation? Do parents need to be held accountable for their irresponsible behaviors? What about school officials, teachers, law enforcement- do they need more training? Is there a need to examine social media platforms and the gaming industry? These may have all in some way contributed to the problem, but what is the problem?

When someone cries for help, are we too busy focusing on our personal needs and issues that we don’t pause to seek to understand and help or do we laugh, stereotype, dismiss, or ignore? ?Do we no longer value life and accept shootings in our community and the escalation of them daily as normal? Is it easier for us to ignore what is invisible and focus on what is visible? Do we want short-term quick fixes rather than long-term sustainable results? Do we prefer to blame others rather than take personal responsibility for our actions? What is the problem?

When incidences occur, what emotions readily surface? Are we angry, afraid, and want to punish? Are love, forgiveness, and mercy outdated? Do we care more about ourselves than our neighbors? Do we look to experts rather than God? Google rather than search the Bible? Slander rather than pray? What is the problem?

Do we prefer our personal interest over identifying and solving the problem? Do we want to hold on to our resources instead of contributing them to resolving the problem? Do we prefer to spend our time doing the things that will advance our personal agenda and gain? What is the problem?

Problems are complex and usually have multiple causes. The resolution requires root cause analysis that necessitates collaboration, an open mind, a willingness to listen to understand different perspectives, and a desire to have everyone at the table who is impacted by the problem. Are you willing to be a part of the solution, or do you want to keep talking about the problem? ?What is the problem?

‘Tis the season of love, joy, generosity. Take time to self-reflect and determine how you can open your eyes, ears, and heart to the people who are around you- at home, in your neighborhood, your schools, at your job, or place of business on your social media platforms. The answer is in a simple command… LOVE! Love is patient, kind, forgives, endures. Love is faithful and consistent. Love is not a cliché. Love is part of the answer. Can you imagine what the world would be like if each of us were to love unconditionally? What is the problem?