Notes on the Virginia Shootings

I originally didn't want to post anything about this event since I am sure everyone is already talking about it. But there are a few things I feel that I need to say.

I truly feel for everyone who was affected by this tragedy, especially the parents. I cannot imagine what they must be going through now. I really do mean it, and not just saying this as a courtesy. When I discuss or hear people talk about this event, it makes me want to cry for the victims, their parents, and their friends. I can imagine a small portion of their pain, and even such a small portion makes me want to weep for them.

As a society, let us focus on the celebration of the victim's lives and society as a whole rather than dwell on the tragedy. Along with the negative side of society that we have seen, we should also be aware of the positives actions taken that day. People who gave their lives to save others, and the support of so many people from so many nations should be remembered. I know that it is hard to stay positive with such a horrible event happening, but I am hoping in time the pain of the victims will fade away and that they will be able to continue with their lives.

Please let this event not trigger anger in others. The natural reaction is for people to hate and feel hostility toward the perpetrator of this horrible act, especially if someone you know was affected. Yes, he had done something horrible, but remember that he was also clinically depressed, and even when he had been identified as troubled earlier, no help was provided. Although he is ultimately responsible for his horrible act, it was also the product of a failed society. People should be more proactive providing help to others even to people who we may not like. Try to strike up a friendly conversation with a stranger everyday. Everyone has something to teach and something to learn from everyone else. If we are more open to the people around us, we can understand everyone around us a bit better, reducing the chances of misunderstandings that may result is hostile feelings. Do not be too proud and arrogant to talk to someone who you think is socially/culturally/(whatever your excuse is) below you. Do not be too greedy to sacrifice something for the benefit of someone else. Do not be too afraid to pester someone to help them if you know that they need help but is too proud to accept it.

For people who are using this situation to your advantage such as using it in an argument of why another country is better than the US, think about the pain and suffering this event has caused. What you are arguing may be true to you, but remember there are different views of the same event. Do not let your arrogance and need to be right lead you to use the death and suffering of others to your advantage. If you are using it for a good cause that will reduce pain and suffering in the future, be sensitive about it and be aware when it becomes a personal issue.

For the people who get a kick out of situations like this: think about why you enjoy the suffering of others. Perhaps there is a hidden reason somewhere that you need to confront. If there is, seek help. Confronting a deep-down problem is very painful and the vast majority of people will not be able to do it without the help of others. Don't be the person who is too scared or proud to admit they have a problem and confront it.

Overall, this was a horrible event that had occurred. I give out my most sincerest condolences to anyone affected by the tragedy. And I really mean it, not just saying it. But hopefully we can all learn something from this event. Most importantly, do not let this event breed more anger and hatred. Even the perpetrator should not be hated and labelled as evil. He was misguided, and I am sure that there must have been something society could have done to prevent this.