Discussion about this post

User's avatar
David Feiser's avatar

I read Bill’s article, glanced at the pictures, and have no desire to watch even a moment of the video. These policemen failed. Whatever extenuating circumstances can be argued, they failed to save those children. What I think we all need to contend with, however, is that we have all failed. This is a societal sin — not merely because some 18 year old psychopath was able to get hold of a weapon, nor because the police held back rather than risk their own lives. This is on us because we are part of a society that has been cultivating a culture of death for the last 50 plus years, we’ve had a laissez fare, anything goes attitude about elevating the self above all else, and we do not cherish life. Why are we surprised by the violence? If we are, I would submit that we need to get out our echo chambers and see things for what they are. This isn’t a problem created by Second Amendment nut-jobs or liberal politicians, but by a retreat away from the true common good and personal responsibility, among other things. Shame on us. May God have mercy on us.

Expand full comment
Fran Mosher's avatar

Shortly after this horrible tragedy, I thought about how difficult it is to teach/train/hire people with critical thinking skills who instinctively will exercise the best option despite rules, procedures, orders, and directives. In military and para-military organizations, this is particularly hard. Hierarchy and chain of command are intrinsic, yet we desire individual discernment, analysis, and assessment as core competencies. I am totally stunned by the number of law enforcement persons at this scene and that none of them felt compelled to override the orders--knowing that their were people (children) in need of their expertise. This should be a serious item of discussion in every organization. How do we balance the "order" of the organization against the risks that move us forward and are the right thing to do? Sometimes the right and logical thing means putting your life and career on the line.

Expand full comment
43 more comments...

No posts