I teach at a couple of universities. And yet I’ve not said a word about the killings at Viriginia Tech. So I will post what I wrote at the pattyo:
No, I’ve not mentioned the horror of the killings at Virginia Tech. And aside from this brief post I won’t go into it at either of my sites. I simply can’t wrap my brain around it, and I can’t see that I have anything to say about it that is of use. (I will say, though, that I think the picture the news sites have put up at their sites is horrible and unnecessary and I won’t be visiting them for a time … until I can be sure it will be removed. I realize the killer is dead so while he’s getting what he wanted — I think — regarding publicity, he isn’t getting to “enjoy” it. But still. The picture with a gun pointing at the reader? Too horrifying for me.)
I’m guessing I shouldn’t watch the TV news tonight, either.
I grieve for those lost and for their families. I grieve for a nation so full of violence.
I have no more words.
I’m sad too….unfortunately it’s just not a national problem (thinking of Dawson College last year in Montreal as well as other countries). It’s terrible that one loner could have destroyed so many lives.
Yes, you’re right … it isn’t just a national problem. I think what troubled me is that my reaction wasn’t one of “How could this ever happen?” but more of a resignation. I’m not sure that that’s a normal US reaction … maybe it’s just my negativity? But I’m thinking it WOULD be one of total shock in Canada …?
Dunno. Just thinking.