My anger over the latest mass shooting in Texas took me out at the knees. I wanted to yell at everyone; especially those in power saying it’s not a gun control issue, it’s a mental health issue because of political agendas based in greed.
However, I realized that it doesn’t really matter what we call the “issue.” We can call it mental health, guns, or both. The bottom line is little children, moms, dads, grandparents and innocent people are getting shot and killed at alarming rates in this country while they are out living their lives by enjoying a concert, attending a church service or walking down a crowded street . I don’t think any of those people who lost their lives or the loved ones who are left in unimaginable grief care what we call the issue – the point is what the hell are we going to do about it? If the people who have the power to do something about changing the laws to prevent mentally unstable people from buying machine guns won’t, then what can we do to make it stop?
This is not about taking away people’s right to own a gun. I know of responsible gun owners who are in agreement that it doesn’t have to be an all or nothing answer. But if I’m screened more heavily trying to adopt a dog than I am trying to buy an AR-15 assault rifle, something needs to change and it needs to change now.
While my anger consumed me at the same time I thought – what can I do other than get angry and rant? Then I was reminded of one of my favorite quotes by Margaret Mead, “Never doubt that small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”
To transform my anger into action I joined Moms Demand Action For Gun Sense in America and committed to participate in my local chapter. I researched the candidates and their stances on this issue and got out to vote. I will participate in talking to my representatives any chance I get and will continue to look for more ways to use my voice.
I could easily keep ranting but advocacy does not happen only in public. It happens in your everyday life and we all have the power to turn our anger into action as citizens and change the world. Indeed – it really is the only thing that ever has.
