We have been shaken to our core over the events at Sandy Hook. For me, a parent of a 6 year old public school 1st grader, this horror has made me question faith, society, mankind, even our purpose in this Universe. When the children’s names are read, and the funerals are announced I picture my daughter and am reminded of pure love. Also, I am looking for someone to squarely place the blame. Who is ultimately responsible when we fall down? The only answer I have been able to process is: Every single one of us. The manufacturer; who builds and sells these tools of mass murder. The lobbyists and lawyers; who enrich themselves protecting these weapons and false philosophies. The politicians; who are corrupt, compliant, afraid, or unwilling. The President; who until now has not uttered a peep about sensible control or regulation. Myself, the suburban Dad who says, “It doesn’t happen in our neighborhood.” The Mom in Newtown; who trained, supported, and taught her troubled son how to kill with assault guns. If it is “darkest just before the dawn.” If last weeks events were our darkest night, then today the first rays of light have appeared and we must wake to a brave new day. We are forced to open our eyes. Recognizing who we are and what we have become are the first steps of change. We believe this is the greatest democracy on the planet. It is time to make that a reality.
