Guns ~ School Safety A~Z

180 days go by each school year, and fortunately without tragedy.  However in recent years we have seen that gun violence has become a topic that has affected many of us who have school aged children. When we send our kids to school, the greatest expectation is that they will be safe.

I have only shot a gun at a range  Breathe, THEN shoot.  The last gun that I shot was the same type used in the Sandyhook shooting.  Little did I now.

If you have a gun in your house, please read this great website:
Talking to kids about Gun Safety

Now for my personal beliefs:

I believe that guns in our schools are a bad idea.   

I believe in our 2nd amendment rights to bear arms.  I believe that there does need to be a stronger universal background check system in place in order to purchase a firearm.   ( I also believe that there should be a national background check for sex offenders, but that is another topic)

We need to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and the mentally ill.  The problem arises and the challenge is that criminals do not follow the law.  We can change all the laws that we want, but that is not going to solve all of the problems we are facing in our society.  We need to change the penalty as well.  We need to get and keep criminals off the streets.  We need judges who are firmer and not afraid to send people to jail when they break the law.  We need to ensure that people who have mental illness are not able to purchase a firearm.  We need tough penalties for people who purchase firearms for people who cannot get them themselves.

Guns in entertainment.  How many shoot-em-up movies do we need to see? Hollywood seems to think that the more gruesome the better.  And video games?  Don't get me started!  Hollywood produces what an audience demands.  I think film makers need to take some responsibility in how our society has become so desensitized to gun violence.

Passing laws might make us feel better, (but remember, criminals do not obey the law), however real change will occur when we as a society will not accept the portrayal of gun violence on our TV's or Movie screens.  When we can turn off the TV and actually talk to our neighbor.  When we can be more compassionate towards one another.  I believe that is when real change will occur.

What do you think about gun violence in America?  I would like to hear your views.  Since this is such a hot topic, please be respectful and kind by not bashing either political party.