This is an emotional time in our country. Lately, I’ve been listening to the young generation coming up with out-of-the-box solutions for mass shootings and safety in our public schools. But yesterday listening to NRA spokeswoman Dana Loesch repeatedly using terms such as “nuts” and “crazy” referring to shooters exacerbates and perpetuates the problem. This is not time to name call or blame the other person; it is time for action, and these young people know the answers. They are calling for action and attention to creating a safe place in education settings as well as in neighborhoods.

Maine had a penned-in pregnant goat shot to death and a fenced-in pregnant beef cow shot at close range between the eyes. These stories tell me that there is a systemic issue that does not necessarily involve one specific group.

The Second Amendment adopted on Dec. 15, 1791, states, “A well-regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” Obviously, this was at a time of primitive law enforcement, lack of legal restrictions, and a culture of taking care of your own. Is this where we want to go back to?

In my opinion, we stigmatize and polarize people. We should be asking ourselves what we can do to protect our children, our animals, and our neighbors. It requires all of us to take action to tear down walls, to meet and talk with others, to show compassion, and to offer a helpful hand.

I want to protect our children and all living beings. I am willing to ask everyone in my life to put down the arms and learn to trust and respect all our fellow living beings. We need morals.

Kim Lane

Waterville