As an American it is just very, very difficult to explain to anyone else why these things happen here. That, of course, is because we don't understand it ourselves. I understand those who lean on the 2nd amendment, but also think that we have to be honest. The amendment was written in it's purest form to allow for the populace to protect itself from the government. This was at a time when a standing government army was strongly frowned upon. Neither of these things are true now (the army has tanks, jets and nukes - the general populace does not). There is NO reason for automatic weapons to be sold. There is NO reason to have an AR-15. If someone wants a gun then get a regular hunting rifle, a shotgun or if you must a handgun (though I don't like those either). Also, if you are going to get one of those then be prepared to be subjected to a reasonable background check.
The risk to doing nothing is far too great. I am much more concerned about my children being killed by a maniac with a gun than I am with our government instituting authoritarian rule.
Also, lost in this dialogue is the concept of treating other people with civility and respect. Too often and too eagerly do we treat those whose opinions do not match our own with criticism and contempt. There is no attempt at productive dialogue. Our 120 character twitter feeds, 24 hour news cycles and facebook comment sections do not allow for compromise by anyone because compromise is seen not as a meeting in the middle, but rather a defeat for failing to achieve total victory.
It is just another in an unfortunately long line of sad days. I wish I could say that there were better days ahead, but in those moments when I am honest with myself I don't believe that to be the case.
Please keep the families of those impacted in your thoughts.
