Sunday, January 9, 2011

Another reminder

The daily headlights frequently bring reality crashing into our home and lives. The attack on Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords causes moments of reflection and regret.

Some of us experienced the "Death of Innocence" with the death of President John F. Kennedy. The years following definitely demonstrated that violence and disregard for the lives of others was a course of action for way too many. Rep. Keith Ellison noted that fear to go to the grocery store or for an elected official to meet openly with his/her public is a threat to our democracy.

Violence should not be tolerated. It must not become a political tool in this country. The current rhetoric of hate and ridicule must change. The person's immediate choice to fight, hit, yell, or curse to intimidate another person (or group of people) must stop. This is not a video game that can be rebooted and all is well. The apparent lack of regard or respect for another individual (or group of people) will continue to create these incidents.

Out thoughts for Rep. Giffords and the families of those others killed and hurt in this tragedy must be a reminder that we set the tone. What will we tolerate?

No comments: