Chapter XIV: Who Became a Leader When the Adults Left Town? Stoneman Douglas Hig
Chapter XIV: Who Became a Leader When the Adults Left Town? Stoneman Douglas High School Shooting
“The journey of a thousand miles begins with one step” (Lao Tzu)
Final Evaluation
We had mentioned in earlier chapters that a hero may be an unsuspecting soul that is called upon to perform some act or deed that may draw upon additional energy or courage. The situation or occurrence itself may provide strength to the unsuspecting hero or less inclined to act, or that which is required to punch a bully squarely in the nose. I, unlike a purported occupant of the oval office, am not soliciting nor enticing others to use physical force. Instead I encourage, as most reasonable and prudent persons would do, is to act from a firm base of intellect, fact, voice, vote, and sound moral obligation to act. How about your family, school or organization, anything come to mind?
I am not going to advocate for or against gun control. This is a debate for another day. I will promote the idea that our children are our future and they need to be well versed in both sides of the argument. I do solicit stronger use of critical thinking, the ability to take command of facts and truths at hand to select a reasonable path. I do, however, at the same time put great faith in our youth to stimulate thought and satisfy intellectual curiosity. I do advocate for less violence and greater use of common sense. I do advocate for adults to cease and desist from the use of killer phrases, especially because it is just easier to do so and in its place get into the fray. Even though you feel threatened, it is for a greater good, our children. Our children require protection provided by leaders until they are of age and wit to care for themselves.
Can children lead?
A significant concern in answering this question will require looking to our past. The children that have registered tremendous outrage is thought by some to be another fad. Many politicians and the NRA are banking on it. If it is not, then does the money poured into protecting the gun industry overshadow the ethical and moral obligation of leadership? Something to consider when examining this question is the differences in Gen X, Y, and Millennials compared to Boomers. The newer generations generally are not party affiliates and have remained independent voters. The question arising is who can best mobilize this group. Who can influence them to convert to their side? This group is coming of age to vote. One may ask what impact they can have as the number coming to maturity of voting age. How many are eligible to vote and how many will take the time to register and vote?
As an example for examining the topic, let me draw your attention to the Driving While Intoxicated rage that saw groups like Mothers against Drunk Driving (MADD) and Students Against Drunk Driving (SADD) emerge. Where did they come from? First, not until young children were dying by the multitude on American Highways resulting from drunk driving did anyone pay