This bit of terrorism was done by a self-proclaimed “white nationalist” (whatever that means… maybe something inbred…) who figured he would go after a synagogue just like going after a mosque earlier on. Hate? Sure. But it’s also terrorism, going indiscriminately after a certain class of people in order to instill fear.
I love this fearless Rabbi. The People of Israel Lives!
עם ישראל חי
I’ve been thinking about causes, and practical and spiritual solutions.
Do you have any ideas? Drop them in the comments box. Moderation on. I don’t know if I’ll approve any. Just thinking for now… praying…
Jesus told us to pray for our enemies. I do every morning. I say three Hail Mary’s for all those who are my enemies. I admit I am a petulant child who says, “Ok, if I have to! But only because You said so.!” I recall the sermon He gave when He spoke about the Father who had two sons and told them to do something. One said ‘Yes’ and did nothing. The other grumbled and frowned but finally obeyed. I hope my unenthusiastic obedience still counts. I don’t like these situations and think the rightful authority (earthly) should come down hard on these people. Only then will they recognize that what they do is WRONG and not their right to express themselves.
Thank you, Joisy Goil. I’ll take a different tack.
There is a liberal answer and a conservative answer to problems; each with its own premise:
So do we have to tolerate terrorism? If so, how much? If not, a “zero tolerance” policy is never a good idea because it casts aside both justice and mercy, that is, after all our civil freedoms have been restricted.
The previous was academic. The following is practical.
Someone may have observed the shooter’s approach and demonstrated no situational awareness, or at least saw no obvious red flags (the weapon was concealed/ the shooter confident). Also, the shooter saw no obstacles to entering the building, and so felt able to continue.
Places of worship should implement a situational awareness program for their staff who would then regularly patrol the perimeter eyeing all, in seriousness, before and during services.
This may prove usefull as a deterrent (an ounce of prevention) for most would-be shooters as they would, I think, be cowards and instead, seek a softer target.