Gun violence has been in the news lately – in fact, violence of all kinds is always in the headlines. There are far too many, and have been for some time. How to solve this persistent problem?
The Second Amendment is not absolute, says President Joe Biden. Does that mean that none of the amendments are absolute? The US Constitution is the law of the land. This is what politicians have sworn to uphold and defend by taking an oath. All who served and serve in the United States military have sworn to support and defend the Constitution. It is absolute.
What good are laws if we don’t have to follow and obey them? Violence of any kind is against the law. Gun control is not working. Law-abiding citizens are responsible; violent people are not. New laws will be ignored, just like current laws. If someone can’t buy a gun legally, they will buy one on the black market or steal one.
What we need is a return to basic morality and respect for others. The difference between right and wrong must be part of any educational system. Schools at all levels, training in any business or industry, should emphasize this.
Civilizations have collapsed due to anarchy. Honesty is the best policy, successful businesses and organizations thrive when honesty is the dominant factor in their management. The punishment for breaking the rules is imperative.
Our society has become immoral and selfish. We must bring back true morality.
Most, if not all, religious beliefs have a moral basis. But we have strayed from the faith. Even though religions have different beliefs, they all have honesty as part of their structure. Regardless of our personal faith or lack of faith, having high moral standards is essential for civilizations.
New gun laws won’t work; criminals and violent people do not obey the law. Mental health should be a central concern, as well as raising the moral level of our society. It will work. It might not eliminate violence and shootings, but it would reduce them, making our country and our communities safer. Red flag laws can only lead to flagging people because of their political beliefs, not always because they are dangerous.
Yes, Mr. President, the second amendment and all the others are absolute. The Constitution is the law of the land – absolutely. It can only be modified by following the procedures described therein.
A return to a highly moral society should be the focal point for reducing crime and mass shootings. Even if one does not believe in a Supreme Being – God – one can still have a high moral character. It cannot be legislated, it has to come from the people. All people of all races, ethnic groups, religious beliefs, genders and in any other way that we classify: We the people.
Herb Dettmer is a retired Bowling Green resident, U.S. Army veteran, and writes this column representing the perspective of citizen “Joe Average.” He is a freelance writer and author of “Others”, a devotional book. Call or text “Joe” with feedback at 419 494-4641.
