WO: Weekly Obsessions

Here we are again — another week of absolute insanity, where I question my faith in humanity and wonder if the madness ever stops. Crucial conversations are happening, but they spark debate and unrest and even more hatred. Families are ripped apart and grieve inexplicable loss, with unanswered questions and shattered hearts. I’ve heard “the worst mass shooting in U.S. history” in reference to multiple events now in my lifetime. How is that possible?

I don’t have answers. Hell, I don’t have questions I can formulate without my blood boiling. I have prayers for peace, but all that praying isn’t changing the landscape of this very real horror we live in. Did we give up the fight when it became “OK” to kill children in their elementary school? Churches, movie theaters, music festivals… these places we seek solace and comfort in, are no longer safe. Maybe they never were.

Without getting even more preachy than I’ve already been, here’s what you can do to help. Learn the names of the victims. Call your senator. Have thoughtful conversation, with more listening than talking. Refrain from being silent, but use your voice for change — not just to soapbox on social media.

I have to believe there is hope, but even that is exhausting. Because after the news of a dear friend’s dad passing Sunday, I had no idea what terror we’d wake up to Monday morning. And it can never be too late — after yet another “worst mass shooting in U.S. history” to express your desire to feel safe in America.