Twice In a Lifetime

I can remember this picture. I never thought I would see the likes of it again.

You really can't compare yesterday's events at Virginia Tech to what happened in 1970 at Kent State. The latter was a clusterf&^k that could have easily been avoided with a lot of patience, understanding, and, perish the thought, some respectful dialogue.

None of that could have stopped the carnage at Virginia Tech. A lunatic with a rifle has no reason. Perhaps, his family members will rationalize that they could have seen more, done more, and said more. Even that would have made little difference. Like an earthquake, you cannot really predict when a mind snaps.

There are no answers to madness. But, over the next few days and weeks, we will have the requisite hand wringing of those who specialize in...hand wringing. There will be efforts to find blame and fault. There was no security. There was no communication. There was no this. There should have been more that.

Our Presidential hopefuls will contribute with statements written hastily by their assistants in limousines or between fundraising dinners. We will hear over and over that this should not happen in America. Our youth should be able to walk across a campus quad without fear that a bullet will prevent them from going to Ethics class. And these remarks will all be dead on accurate.

But, moving forward, while you cannot really prevent madness, our political leaders AKA "chuckleheads" can certainly try to work together in unison to create a climate where we can feel safe when we leave our homes every morning to go about our business. Instead of worrying about how to get elected or re-elected, how about spending some time in that gray area of moderation which allows for open constructive dialogue on issues that are pulling at the threads of our national fabric? Gun control. Immigration. Poverty. It's clear that Red Vs. Blue, Liberal vs. Conservative, Republican vs. Democrat has gotten us nowhere fast.

That is the one and only type of madness that they can do something about.

Dinner last night: grilled bratwurst with carrots and stewed tomatoes.