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OPINION
In the aftermath of the terrible massacre at Virginia Tech University, where 32 people were slain by a fellow-student turned gunman who then took his life, came talk of “what could have been done differently,” “what can we do now,” etc… we’ve heard a lot of things. There is the blame that was focused on the police who responded to the first two shootings, as well as the campus authorities- “Why hadn’t they warned the campus? Cancelled classes, issued an alert???” In hindsight, its so easy for people to point fingers, question who did what, why, when, how, etc.. Perhaps that’s why it was so beautifully inspiring to see so many of the students interviewed by various news media share a hopeful positive outlook for the future, despite the tragedy that took place in their midst. Over and over, we heard these courageous survivors state that he or she wasn’t going to let this terrible horrible event stop them from going on to have a fulfilling life. Silent tears expressed my reaction to such these incredible professions of faith and strength. Their statements couldn’t have been more profound. Think about it- if we never dared to step beyond the familiar strip of sidewalk, dip our toes into an ocean’s edge, if we never took a chance we would miss out on so much living! If our predecessors never dared to attempt flying, or travel to a distant land that would become our America, where would we be, now? Yes, freedom of choice can certainly bring with it risks, just like living in a free country means there’s always a chance that bad things could happen. But it is so worth it. Think of all the terrible conditions and horrors that could be without our precious freedoms. Just a few days prior to Fountain’s recent election, some person or persons made a choice to send out an anonymous postcard making less than positive references to some of the candidates, as well as a local man who was not even running for office. Three of the seven candidates received positive ratings. Two of those were elected. Did the postcard affect the outcome of the election? We will never know for sure, which is why those who dismiss this as “bad politics” just don’t get by saying so to me. I’ve heard a few make the argument that whomever sent the card was just exercising his/her or their freedom of speech or freedom of expression. Possibly, but just because we have the freedoms to do such things doesn’t make it right or the good choice. When freedoms are entrusted to us, it is left up to us to make wise choices. To those who chose to take the low road in this nasty postcard mailing incidents- shame on you! Whoever is responsible for the “hate post card” as some have called it, certainly timed the mai Truly, so much of life is what you make of it. Waking up and deciding to face the day with a smile instead of a frown. Trying new things, even some that scare you. Life can be one big adventure- whether that means sky diving or trying a new hairstyle for the less-daring! It’s all up to you. After all, being in control of one’s own destiny is not only a good idea, its essential for a life well-lived. A journalist from Kansas City (I believe his name was Jason Whitlock) said it well following the IMUS scandal, that if any of the female athletes who were the focus of the radio shock-jock’s unwarranted derogatory and racial comments were going to let the rest of their lives be darkened or ruined by some guy on the radio, there was a serious problem at hand. How true!- much like the Virginia Tech students who said while they won’t soon forget the terrible tragedy in their midst, they won’t let this dark day get in their way of moving forward in life. We must still embrace the freedoms our forefathers fought and died for. Yes, sometimes, bad things could still happen, but think of how many many more good things will be. It’s so worth it. And, while we cannot control the actions or reactions of others, we can choose how we will respond to them. If someone is making choices or accusations that cause you to feel badly, you may not be able to change their feelings, impressions or words, but you can control your own responses, just as you can choose to distance yourself from the person causing you pain if that is the only solution available. We have so many options- whatever you decide, your life will surely unfold, accordingly. CONTACT THE WRITER • PATRICIA@FTNVALLEYNEWS.COM |
