What is happening?

The focus of my blog is not anything which can be debated or that can spark controversy.  I don't like to argue, period.  I don't like to discuss politics.  However, the events of e past few weeks have affected my heart and my mind.

First, national disasters,  Hurricanes. . Earthquakes.  People need help.  Assistance should be given quickly and continually, not just in the first few hours after it occurs.  The after effects are long term and can't be repaired in just a few days or even a few weeks. Instead of bickering about who did what or how this or that didn't happen as it should, exert the effort to make it better. Also reserve expressing opinions unless all the facts are known.

Second, taking a knee.  My father, my grandfather, and my uncles were all veterans.  I was taught to respect the flag, the pledge, and the National Anthem.  No matter up what happens in our country or to it, that flag is a symbol of our strength. Drive around the statue of Iwo Jima in Washington DC.  Watch the Olympis gold medalists with tears in their eyes as they stand proud for our National Anthem.  Look at a flag-draped coffin returning from current battles.  Watch as the flag is folded from the casket of a veteran and presented to the family at the graveside. Listen as voices join together prior to a high school basketball game as everyone stands facing the flag to honor our country and freedoms we have to learn, to participate in athletic events, to sit and converse with friends and neighbors, and to cheer on our favorite teams at a high school event.  As much as I try to understand the reasons why "taking a knee" during the National Anthem is a peaceful protest for injustices suffered by others in our country, all I see is disrespect for our flag, our anthem, our country, and our veterans, including my dad.  I just can't get around that.

Third, random shootings.  And it's not just shootings, it is fear to be alone in a parking lot.  It is fear when walking down a street in a big city.  It is the need for double locked doors and security clearance to enter a school.  It is needing a special tag to pick up a child from pre-school.  It is the hesitation to even take a walk down the road on a warm fall evening without mace for protection.  What has happened to us that human life has little to no value for so many people?

As I said, I don't debate.  I don't want to discuss. My feelings are my own and that is just the way it is.    Usually my posts are family oriented or celebrate milestones or events in y life, but with the recent happenings in our country, a more serious post seemed appropriate.