Guns and Children: All I Can Say Is Amen

 Last Tuesday, November 30, a 15 year old boy entered a school in Michigan with a weapon.  A semi-automatic pistol.  After firing over thirty rounds, three students were left dead, eight others were injured.  The following day, one of them died as well from injuries sustained in the attack.  The shooter was apprehended on the scene by police, but his parents eventually fled the area, only to be hunted down and later caught.  The boy's father had purchased the gun for him just a few days earlier.  And both parents appeared to be cavalier when there were signs he might use it as he did.

The parents have now been charged with four counts each of involuntary manslaughter.  School officials may also face charges.  All of which is largely unprecedented.  

Of course, I am rehearsing details here that most of my readers already know.  But what may create more interest and therefore more press coverage, is the seeming facts about the parents and their actions.  The boy is just that.  At fifteen, just a boy.  Should he bear responsibility for his actions, of course.  But were those actions made possible by parental actions or inaction?  That will be decided in the courts.  But perhaps the fact that such questions will be asked in court is an indicator that we've turned a corner in terms of our attitudes and approach to gun ownership and use.

The day of the shooting a friend of mine, a fellow clergyperson from New England, posted a prayer online.  He posts a benediction many nights on social media.  Benedictions that often reflect the day's news.  That night he wrote: "Good night all.  I pray for a day when this country loves and values its children more than its guns.  The Lord bless you and keep you."

All I can say to that is Amen, Brother Rick, Amen.