Jul 27 2009
Maryland Shooter - Illustrates a Point
Today I read an article concerning a shooter who had opened fire on a backyard cookout in Baltimore Maryland on July 27th. There is no suspect or recognized motive for this crime. As the shooter targeted a specific home, we can assume it’s likely that he/she held a grudge against the residents there. Instead it’s also possible that the location was chosen due to there being a relatively large crowd. The report of how many were wounded in the attack varies. At least 7 people were wounded. One of the wounded was a toddler, 2 years old, another a young pregnant woman.
We are lucky concerning the lack of any serious injuries. But for me this situtation raises some questions about our society, where these types of activities illustrating individuals as crying out for attention are becoming a regular event.
What would cause someone to do this? Stress combined with a weakened mind seems the most likely answer. Man the human brain is such a puzzle. Those that seem in need of emotional care often seem unable to recognize it. It would be logical to think “Gee, I feel like getting a gun, going down to the park and opening fire; I must be mentally unwell. I will seek help.” This would be in an ideal world where individuals could always see the illness within their minds - It wouldn’t likely happen in our world anyway even if people could recognize what was happening… You see in our world we are heavy-handed with labeling. People would not seek help so that they could avoid being labeled loony… People around them would probably say “Once a loony always a loony,” many would be reluctant to supply an individual with work after seeking help.
Gossiping about those with problems and labeling in our society seem typical learned social behaviours. With all of the goings on in the world it ain’t helping things any. Well, doncha think?
