The Latest In A Series...

She rose early this morning, scanned the
chapter on Roman History one more time
before the second period test, got dressed,
walked slowly to the front door, then
hesitated as if she didn't want to open it.

Santa Fe, TX; Palmdale, CA; Ocala, FL;
Raytown, MD; Gloversville, NY

The blue uniform is neatly pressed, badge in
place, shoes shined.  That's the way he
was taught at the Police Academy.  As
he walks to his squad car he
thinks about the morning headline.

Lexington Park, MD; Seaside, CA; 
Mobile, AL; Birmingham, AL; 
Jackson, MS

Senior English has been her love and her
specialty for twenty years.  She teaches
with passion and deep commitment.  Today
she weeps at her desk before the class arrives.

Mount Pleasant, MI; Norfolk, VA; Itta Bena, MS;
Savannah, GA; Parkland, FL

He went to bed angry and got up the same
way.  Being treated unfairly, he said.
Taken advantage of, he claimed.
He sticks the semi-automatic pistol
in his belt, under his shirt, as he
gets into his car.

Nashville, TN; Oxon Hill, MD; Los Angeles, CA;
Philadelphia, PA; Benton, KY

The minister addresses the congregation with words
of hope and healing.  Then he prays for an end
to all the violence in the country, especially
violence directed toward innocent children.
"Lord, do something to stop this."

Italy, TX; Winston-Salem, NC

Twenty-two school shootings since January 1.
Twenty-two and counting.
"The latest in a series of school shootings..."
is the standard beginning for the recurring
newscast that terrifies every parent and
family.  And shames us all.

Prayer is good.
Constructive, determined conversation, too.
Action is best