Life is so raw now. Perhaps it always has been, but being snowed in for a week, plus having a nasty sinus infection has left me at the mercy of the news. I no longer watch TV, but NPR is my constant companion, giving me what I feel is a more level-headed view of the world than some of the networks. This week, however, I have heard numerous comments about a troubled young man named Jared who managed to gun down an awful lot of people in Arizona, killing some, injuring others and frightening all. That he aimed at a congresswoman who has managed to survive is amazing; that he killed an innocent 9-year-old child interested in serving her country saddens me almost more than any of the other losses.
Right now, I am listening to the soothing voice of President Obama addressing a memorial service. He and his wife are there to help heal the deep cuts produced by hatred. I pray for his success.
Why must we make it so easy to own guns? Why are we so afraid? Must we, too, own a gun so we can finish off those who come after us? Will that make it right? I doubt it. At least when nature kills it seems to be mindless; there's nothing mindless about the murders we have seen in the last few years. Surely love for one another and the love of the Creator should lead us away from violence, open us to greater generosity and bring true peace. Maybe that's not in the works for human beings.
About Me
- saundra
- Born in Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, I am a genuine Florida Cracker--a descendent of sturdy women and men who farmed their way south from North Carolina in the early 1800's. I am a graduate of Florida State University with a BS in Social Science, and earned an MA in Education/Storytelling from East Tennessee State University. My work is deeply influenced by a love and reverence for the natural world and environmental issues and my love of story. Performance Photos by Valerie Menard, Silentlightimages.com.
