We have all heard the horror stories of gun violence: drive-by shootings, dangerous hostage situations and, maybe worst of all, deadly school shootings. Mothers cry for their dead children and students grieve for the fallen classmates have become an all-too-common scene across our nation. The controversial issue of gun control is at its peak.
The control of firearms in this country depends on the general public. The general public has more influence on gun control than anybody. So many entertainment companies produce violent TV shows and movies that it is no surprise young children think it is OK to kill. Meanwhile their parents are telling them that killing is wrong. Kids today receive too many mixed messages, and cannot comprehend them all. It is not just the entertainment industry’s fault, but parents and teachers need to do their part, too.
We all expect to get our love, support and discipline from our parents. Today, kids don’t get enough attention and support. I strongly believe that it is no one’s fault but their parents. If we want gun violence to decrease, we need to see the support and encouragement to our young people go up.
Parents, older friends of young people and young people, as peers, need to be able to recognize when one of our buddies is in trouble, emotionally or physically. We need to be there. The control of guns is taught a lot by parents and other example figures. If your child is taught from the moment he or she is born to share their feelings and open up to the people who love them, that young person will be more likely to let feelings in positive ways, instead of violent ones. The young people today need to know that they are wanted, and listened to.
Let’s pay attention to our youth. They will carry on the legacy they are taught. Let your legacy be worth carrying on, because I know no one wants to see another deadly school shooting or a mother’s baby die.
Camano Island
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