Thoughts, Prayers, and Policy

Lately there has been so much going on, and what is heavy on my mind today is the latest mass shooting, and this one in a church again.  It is very sad, that  a place of worship in Charleston, a small town in Texas, a school, a theater, and so many other places have been victimized by someone with a gun.  The man in Las Vegas went on a rampage after he entered a hotel with a cache of guns and killed so many innocent people who were merely trying to have fun.

After each of these events, which by the way, are deemed terrorist acts, mental illness, or whatever seems to fit the particular bill, there has been an immediate response “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families.” Exactly, what does that mean?  Are they idle words? Are folks really thinking about the families and praying for them?

The other  immediate comment is “It is not time to talk about gun control.” However, many of the immediate conversations lay blame on someone in Congress, some immigrant, some negative characterization associated with the sad occurrence.  Why not talk immediately about gun control?  Is the NRA running Washington?  What is the fear of this organization?  How can a man with a history that the latest gunman had, possibly buy a gun?  Weaponry is a huge industry in this country, and I imagine money moves almost everything.

If hunters need guns, they certainly are not hunting people.  How are legitimate gun buyers distinguished from those who should never be able to buy a gun?  I wish I had an answer.  I get so tired of hearing “Guns don’t kill people, people do.”  Guns in the wrong hands, kill people!!

Policy is what should matter right now.  While thinking and praying, FEET SHOULD BE MOVING!