I received the news about the tragic events in Orlando in fragmented pieces—a social media post, news segments, and conversations with friends. Yet, I felt a profound lack of understanding.
Similarly, I grappled with the same confusion when I learned about the heartbreaking shootings at Sandy Hook, San Bernardino, and Virginia Tech. Perhaps it’s a form of self-preservation, an instinct that limits how much sorrow one can absorb at a time. Or maybe it’s simply the overwhelming nature of such tragedies.
Regardless of the reason, the weight of this senseless violence eventually hit me, halting me in my tracks. But I still find myself at a loss. I just don’t get it.
I can’t comprehend how individuals can harbor such deep-seated hate. I struggle to understand how tragedies in nightclubs, schools, and theaters become platforms for spreading venomous rhetoric. I’m baffled by our collective complacency. How can we, as a nation—and as human beings—not demand change? I don’t understand why some people choose to exploit a tragedy to propagate hate or simply ignore it. Why do we fail to listen when we declare, “Enough is enough”?
I don’t get it. I really don’t.
But you know what? Understanding isn’t a prerequisite for feeling anger, sadness, or frustration. I don’t need to comprehend the hate or indifference of others to know that action is necessary. I can advocate for change without grasping the motivations behind such cruelty.
Here’s what I do know:
I understand that the loss of any child to gun violence—whether a kindergartner or an adult—resonates with us all. It’s a parenting issue that affects everyone. I want my kids to grow up in a world where they don’t have to fear for their lives while dancing, loving, or simply enjoying a meal out. I refuse to accept a reality where fear stifles the joy of living, and I certainly don’t want that for my children.
I recognize that the Second Amendment does not guarantee access to assault weapons. We can debate this endlessly, yet while we argue, lives are being lost. Silence has become both dangerous and deadly.
Because of our inaction and reluctance to push for gun control, 49 innocent lives were taken by someone consumed by hatred I cannot fathom. Those 49 individuals—like you and me—had families, aspirations, and fears. They were just living their lives, seeking happiness in their brief time on this earth.
So, no, I don’t understand hate.
But I know this: Hate does not define us. We are fallible yet resilient. There are more individuals who love than those who hate, more who support than those who harm.
The world is indeed chaotic and fraught with challenges. I may not fully comprehend it, but I understand that action is essential, and I can contribute to making the world a bit safer and brighter.
I don’t need to understand to declare ENOUGH.
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Summary:
In the face of senseless violence and tragedy, we often struggle to understand the hatred that fuels these acts. However, it’s crucial to recognize that understanding is not necessary to feel anger and advocate for change. The loss of life due to gun violence affects us all, and silence can be deadly. We must respond with love, action, and a commitment to creating a safer world for future generations.