STOP THE VIOLENCE (pt3)

I believe that we should consider violence a social disease, that is acute, chronic, and of epidemic proportions. We can and must begin to attack this public health menace constructively at the same time that we seek to improve the socioeconomic status of the poor. We should attempt to change those in our society who accept violence as a legitimate aspect of family life. There should be programs in our schools to teach children the risks of violence and to help them manage hostility and aggression, their own and that which may be directed against them. We must also seek ways to decrease levels of personal anger and frustration and to channel these emotions positively into education, work, recreation and community service. These are not optional goals. Nothing short of a concerted effort, marshaling all available resources, is required to stem the rising incidence of violence, in our homes, our schools and our communities.

Public awareness and commitment to prevention can be a powerful force, critically important to reducing the threat of substance abuse and violence in our communities. Public commitment has to start with the individual, then it has to be built one by one, family by family, group by group, community by community.

The problem is so great that it is hard to see what everyday people can do to make a difference. Perhaps, the problem is so big, that only the everyday folk can bring about a change. The violence problem is too big for the experts alone. We all have to be involved. No matter where we live, what our age, whatever our situation in life, how many or few gifts, we all have a part to play. The lyrics to a song by the late pop star Michael Jackson ring true,…”If you want to see a change, you have to start with yourself. It’s the Man in the Mirror”, who makes a difference.

Yes, the problem of violence, is a problem for all of us. Deep in my heart I do believe we can solve it if we realize and remember that: “Nobody can do Everything, but Everybody can do Something and if Everybody is doing Something then Everything will get done!” AMEN SOMEBODY!!!