Sandy Hook - Where to start the healing process

I never know what to say when something as violent and, in my mind, senseless, as the murders at Sandy Hook takes place.  I'm absolutely heart-broken.

I've listened to the news reports, watched the various discussions and read numerous commentaries.  Obviously, there are no simple solutions to ensuring that something like this doesn't happen again; BUT FOR GOODNESS SAKE, DO SOMETHING!

National or, hopefully, world-wide change doesn't happen overnight.  It all starts with little changes.

Picture a very large oceanliner cutting through the waters of the ocean.  Everything is great until you realize that you are heading in the wrong direction.  Even when everyone is in agreement that the ship must be redirected, it takes the order from the captain which must then be executed by the crew to even start the process.  Next, turning the ship is gradual - you can't turn an oceanliner on a dime.

At this point, I think we've finally reached the mark where we agree that we are heading in the wrong direction.  The problem - we still haven't agreed upon the precise direction we should be heading.  Troubling to say the least.

My take is to start at a personal level.

If you think that we can ensure personal security by increased gun controls and/or taxes on gun ownership - start at home - don't own a gun or ensure that you are a responsible owner by locking up your weapon(s).  Do more - express your opinion and encourage your family, friends, and community to do likewise.  Let your local politicans know how you feel.

If you would like to live in a society that is sensitive to the feelings and needs of its members - be that kind of neighbour.

Be mindful of whether your message is one of love or one of control.  Consider that you can choose to be kind and loving to anyone, but you can only control your own behaviour.  Trying to dictate the actions and choices of others, in my opinion, is never a successful long-term strategy.

Anyway, I don't want to get preachy.

My advice, the best way to make the world a better place happens by taking baby steps - identify what you can do personally (there is always something no matter how small) and act on it.

My heartfelt sympathy to all those who felt a loss as a result of this tragic event.