Just after 9/11 when the terror threat was high, the US promulgated a saying: “See something, say something.” The idea was that with everyone looking for potential bombs and other devices, we would be more likely to avoid random attacks on our country and its citizens.
A new, and persistent threat has arisen to threaten our country and its citizens. Firearm violence has become almost daily news. The Waffle House shooting on Sunday was followed by another report today of a shooting at a Home Depot. It is hard to keep up.
Some have suggested, and even demanded that firearms be removed, in one degree or another. Since the right to own such weapons is protected by the Second Amendment and several Supreme Court decisions, a limitation of ownership appears to be an arduous and drawn out ordeal.
A simpler and more direct solution is staring us in the face. Today’s “Tennessean” (4/25/18) headline reports, “A history of red flags didn’t stop suspect.” Almost every “shooter” is described, after the fact, as being “troubled” at best and definitely a threat at worst. The potential next shooter is walking among us today, just waiting for “something” to set him off. (Or her–gotta be non-sexist.)
It is not legal for someone with a history of mental problems or worse, a record, to possess guns. If everyone would look into their own circle of acquaintances and identify any who may be subject to these aberrations of behavior and report them to the proper authorities, we will avoid most, if not all, of these tragedies.
See something, say something. Not everyone who is troubled is a potential time bomb, but there is still no sense in preserving their ability to own or possess firearms. That is not a right, and has been affirmed by the Supreme Court. The little ditty we used as a kid, “Better safe than sorry,” certainly applies here.
Don’t wait and hope for a James Shaw to save us. See something, say something.
