Events described in Aurora, Colo., were so horrific they could
hardly be comprehended. Questions, opinions and finger pointing
followed and will continue until the next event.
It
is almost beyond belief that one person had the ability to
cause an entire nation to grieve. Did this, said to be very
intelligent person, even conceive the sadness he would bestow
on everyone? While the majority of our country grieves because
of his madness, he is incarcerated in solitary “for his
own protection.” Why do we owe him concern for his
safety?
He showed no concern for the helpless souls in the theater.
He even planned to do more harm in the aftermath by booby-
trapping his apartment.
As
I observed the almost constant news coverage, I heard many
ideas presented by those seeking answers to how
and why this
obscene act took place. One person on a television
interview asked, “Wasn’t anyone carrying a gun in the theater?” If
they were, they did the right thing by not using it. No one
could have safely used a weapon in such a panic situation.
Imagine if half a dozen people began firing guns at who they
thought was the killer – how many more may have
died.
Many knowledgeable people offered opinions during the numerous
interviews. One I found the most accurate yet least considered
was given by Mayor Bloomberg of New York City.
He
implied the NRA should be held responsible. Although I don’t
agree with that statement, I do feel there should be some control
put on the sale of extremely high-powered weapons and steel-piercing
bullets. How hard would it be to flag purchases of assault
rifles? Especially to individuals who have no reason to need
one like the “innocent” appearing young man who
purchased one “legally.”
Rifles, shotguns and pistols have a place in the marketplace.
Those who enjoy hunting should not have to have their sport
restricted but they are not licensed to hunt anything in a
bulletproof vest either. The excessive high-powered ammo is
simply not needed by civilians. Removing these types of shells
from sale would undoubtedly bring a sigh of relief from many
law enforcement personnel who are called upon to protect us.
Experts and politicians who clamor to appear on camera to put
forth their ideas seem to overlook what I consider a major
contributor to the despicable acts we all face daily.
Although
sold as “entertainment,” I believe games — such
as those where players join in and stage
simulated gun battles with the objective of killing,
should be looked
at as a causative
factor. Those playing the games become so
engrossed they play long into the night and resist any
interruptions.
The simulated gunfights give frequent winners a false feeling
of power. Players become desensitized, viewing killing people
as a daily sport that is judged as an accomplishment. Paint-gun
hunting and shooting human targets can also provide a feeling
that killing is fun.
As I see it, please let the Olympic Games begin. We will all
be glad to witness tears of happiness after so many tears of
sorrow.