It’s been suggested that over-the-counter and easily obtainable prescription drugs — and their clearly stated side effects — may be a catalyst for the abhorrent behavior we’ve seen in our country lately and repeatedly.

The picture of the Colorado gunman as student and his subsequent mug shot is a starling contrast.

Thank God the Olympics have wiped this tragedy off the front page. Although the bizarre opening ceremonies served as a reminder to question: What motivates otherwise intelligent people to plan and devise such horrific, grandiose mayhem?

Perhaps the residue from a cornucopia of pharmaceutical junk pushed relentlessly in all forms of media exposure. This industry tends to prey (word carefully selected) most diligently (and effectively) on folks of my advanced age.

Consider the side effects of Chantix to thwart smoking: “If you, your family, or caregiver notice agitation, hostility, depression, or changes in behavior, thinking, or mood that are not typical for you, or you develop suicidal thoughts or actions, anxiety, panic, aggression, anger, mania, abnormal sensations, hallucinations, paranoia, or confusion, stop taking Chantix and call your doctor right away.” Or you might wreak havoc at yet another Batman blockbuster?

Years ago, the Rolling Stones’ song, “Mother’s Little Helper,” foreshadowed our culture of mass pill-popping. It was back when we seemed to coexist in a closer-knit, harmonious and respectful country when our politicians regularly imbibed rather than constantly impuned.

Americans pulled their weight; now Americans wear their weight. It was a time before Ambien, Prozac, Cymbalta and super-sizing. I remember when adults bathed without taking Cialis beforehand. What’s up with those separate tubs?

No question I sound like a grumpy 64-year old boomer pining for “the way life used to be.” When Batman was just a comic book or a campy TV show.

Buddy Doyle

Gardiner

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