So, this shows up in our Facebook feed:

Here's what I think...this IS the majority...those being nice. Facebook/social media trolls, fake news, and badness have convinced us otherwise--since what we've seen is that too many have bought into that crap. Perhaps our human vulnerability to be drawn to the bad and salacious.

We encounter MANY more nice people in person than mean ones. Doing the right thing isn't taught in school or home...it is modeled. We should know by now that the old adage, Do as I say, not as I do, doesn't really work. We all need to be the adult who gets along, is generous, makes people happy, etc. etc....the nice one.

Less Guns, More Dogs

You may say that sounds trite...not so.

What we need is a change in culture. A change of Heart. A change to compassion.

Dogs are known to be animals that can improve lives, especially as trained comfort/therapy dogs. I propose that we move to equipping willing teachers with therapy dogs that they bring to school every day. Dogs that offer a comfort to troubled youth. Dogs that can tell when someone is troubled.

If not teachers or trained therapists, then professionally trained canine/officer teams who can patrol and attack on command. A dog could have distracted the shooter just long enough for the officer to take critical action.

Dogs have a way with people. Just think if dog therapy were instituted in middle school and high school -- where violent behavior may be detected and thwarted. Also, caring for an animal is beneficial to young people. In addition to elective classes in art and music, student could take dog care and grooming. Or, just think, maybe a 'time out' with a dog may just calm down a child so that a trained professional therapist could work with the student toward better behavior outcomes. Or, good behavior is rewarded with a doggie time-out?

I'm hoping that teachers would rather be able to bring their dog to school than a concealed Glock. A Golden Retriever or Rescued Greyhound are historically great dogs for 'hanging' out and allowing children to pet them. And think about the reward system of being able to take the dogs for a walk during the day or just throw a ball or frisbee for a few minutes. Stress levels all around would be lower and learning may accelerate. Not all teachers are dog lovers, but those who are can put that love to good use. Elementary schools already know the value of the class pet...but usually those are gerbils, fish, hamsters, etc. Think of that comfy Golden in the classroom. Not a distraction, but a lifesaver.

I think it could work. I'm going to write up a proposal and float it to everyone I can.

#neveragain #enough

Social media a root cause...

From a Facebook friend:
"I’m not going to go on a pro/con gun rant but since the shooting in Parkland, I have seen numerous media posts that other schools are receiving an influx of direct threats as well ask people turning other in that have made threats.

I’m going to go out on a limb here and state that aside from moving away from religion, medication, mental health, division of republicans/dems, gun control, etc the one thing that I notice in all of these arguments as to root cause is social media. There are more avenues for people to learn about others shooting up schools, how to videos, biased reporting, etc.

The rise of the internet is at the core of all of these excuses. Information on anything is readily available to everyone. Before, you didn’t know what you didn’t know until you heard about it from someone you know. If mom and dad wanted to shield kids from something, it was much easier, not today.

It’s not going to get any easier. The internet is not going to go away. We need to learn to adapt and find a way to be more peaceful and making rules restricting “this-that-and everything else” isn’t going to stop it. There has to be a “want to” and it starts with you and I. So, are we going to keep bickering or be a part of the change for good? Think about it."

Sooooooo,

Here's a thought, or two. The Internet HAS become a war zone and the battles are being won with propaganda, misinformation, and divide & conquer. The Russians are winning in America without firing a shot as we are battling each other in our families, schools, and places of worship. Americans have armed themselves with half truths and falsehoods and the young people in Florida are emerging as the warriors we need, armed with truth.

I've seen many references to children growing up today with no respect for authority and always challenging authority. So, if we are not to challenge authority in America, why do citizens need guns? The second amendment has been twisted to encompass 'protecting my family' and in secret societies it manifests itself in militias ready to take over the government. So, if your argument is that we are not to challenge authority, such as police and FBI, then why do we need the weapons of war in our homes? Why do we fear the government? Police? Having those weapons In our homes has resulted in too many 'good' guys being killed in the line of duty (such as the two officers in Westerville, Ohio).

I applaud the young people challenging authority and feel confident they will arm themselves with truth and integrity.

Minority in America

If white folks don't see any disadvantage to being a minority in the United States, then what's the problem with becoming one? If minorities have equal rights and have been treated fairly, what's the problem?

After posting this, I read an interesting article: http://www.rightorunite.org/white-men-need-to-decide-if-they-want-to-share-this-country-with-the-rest-of-us/

Defending Guns

Why do Christians use Bible references to defend guns?

Trying to understand what this photo and the 'Cain and Able' reference means...not trying to argue with Facebook friends, but only listen and understand. Can see several metaphors and rationalizations. Is it okay to fight with God-made rocks or man-made guns? Is it that we need to overcome human failings and overcome our desire to hate and fear? Wouldn't it be right to turn away from weapons and turn to love? Should the "conscientious objector" be revered or ridiculed?* Is it hard for Christians to take that step to remove weapons from their homes and hearts? The longest journey begins with the first step. If we want a society of peace and kindness, what is the step you are willing to take?

Another trending misleading story about school shootings on Facebook that I checked on Snopes: https://www.snopes.com/politics/guns/scott.asp

Please note that God and prayer has never been 'outlawed' in schools. If you believe God is everywhere, God is EVERYWHERE. God did not leave. Perhaps parents rely on schools to take care of their children's spirituality? Why do parents relegate spiritual growth and awareness to others and make it someone else's responsibility? ...to make someone else the easy scapegoat when bad things happen? Just posing some thoughts and trying to understand how we are now at this place in time where 'God-fearing Christians' want laws against murder but not against guns...fascinating. I'm looking forward to a time when assault guns are unnecessary. If we fear that our democracy can only last if the citizenry is armed to the teeth, then are we really free?

*the conscientious objector to war in American society has long been ridiculed by people of faith. Looked as a coward, a draft-dodger, etc.  In my opinion, the person standing up to say 'I don't want to practice war no more' and not willing to take another's life is a hero, is courageous, and to be admired.

WE DO NOT NEED THIS CULTURE OF GUNS!

Theory of Happiness

"A calm and modest life brings more happiness than the pursuit of success combined with constant restlessness.”

• Albert Einstein

Political Opinions - Who can have them?

Many people complain about actors and athletes making their opinions public...and interfering with politics and government.

So, does your chosen profession or occupation dictate your patriotism or opinion? If actors don't have a place in making a difference for their country or cause, why was Ronald Reagan elected president...twice? Why do we pay attention to Jerry Lewis and send in millions of dollars for muscular dystrophy, or Danny and Marlo Thomas for St. Jude's Children's Hospital?  Don't forget the current occupant of the White House spent years in tv entertainment and beauty pageants. Should we quit listening to him?

Maybe actors and actresses have a handle on what is real and what is make believe. And from that, they can use their voices for good or evil.