Find Me Serenity

In preparation for National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) which starts November first my plan was to write a blog entry every day in October. Because I missed day one, and because nothing truly happens in my life, I wavered. But I woke up with a whole lot to talk about.

Whenever there is tragedy anywhere in the world social media feeds become one long “pray for [insert city, country, continent name here]” series of posts. I have questions.

I know that social media does not present a 24 hour look into people’s lives. There are exceptions to this but for the most part you’re not getting to see what people do every second of their lives. I get this 100%. But why pray to whatever deity you believe in after a tragedy instead of asking for help preventing one? And if you are praying for things like peace and love all the time, do you ever ask yourself why no one is listening?

The same narrative comes up every time something like the terror attack in Las Vegas happens. First and foremost it’s the prayers for families and loved ones affected. Then there’s the question of when the right time to talk about gun control is. Followed by whether or not his or her race makes them a terrorist or a disturbed individual. As if there’s a difference.

So today, although my thoughts are with those affected by the most recent tragedy in Vegas, my thoughts are also with those that turn to some sort of religious figure for answers. Especially politicians who have the power to make a change. Posting tweets about your thoughts and prayers doesn’t change gun control policy. You will notice I used the word control here. Nobody needs assault rifles. Scratch that, nobody but the military needs assault rifles.

Thoughts and prayers are never going to stop gun violence. And not one average everyday American needs 19 guns and enough ammo to mow down a nation of people let alone an unsuspecting crowd at a concert.

If you’re going to get on your knees and put your hands together do it in front of your state representative and ask them why they’re comfortable with this much violence. Instead of praying to an invisible being beg a real one to stop this madness.