America felt a wide swath of hatred and intolerance on 9/11/2001. Today, we pause to reflect on more weaknesses in our human existence. From Martin Luther King, Jr. to Charlie Kirk, our nation has endured political and philosophical assassinations and assassination attempts. No matter what one’s philosophy, politics, or faith, violent responses or even advocating violent responses to someone whose views may differ from our own is ALWAYS wrong.
Freedom of speech is not just for those with whom we agree. Name-calling, derogatory labeling, and other extremist rhetoric that calls for violence as a response to political disagreement have absolutely no place in a democratic society. Diversity of opinion makes this country strong. Intolerance, especially expressed by those who regularly espouse tolerance, breaks us down.
Anyone who snickers or believes the heinous assassination of Charlie Kirk is worthy or somehow good for America needs to do some serious soul searching or even seek mental health support. (That is not sarcasm.) Pray for sanity for violence advocates.
Meanwhile, remember one thing. Martyring Charlie Kirk does not silence his conservative advocacy, especially among our nation’s young people. Silencing one strong influencer merely awakens thousands more.
