Matthew Rothchild, Robbinsdale, Minn.
Our country once again finds itself dealing with the horrific aftermath of a tragic event. As the public emerges, dazed from the psychological pummeling of the tragedy, they find themselves beset on all sides by an exploitationist class that seeks to parlay the tragedy into a quick social, political, and legislative victory, thus defiling the victims in pursuit of profit.
We've all seen this process repeat itself many times. The dynamic never changes, only the names and details of the events: Centennial Park, 9/11, Katrina, Sago, 35W, Virginia Tech, Fort Hood, Indiana State Fair, Aurora.
With each of these names has been an accompanying army of societal vultures who seek to benefit from the losses of others. Some of them seek money, others power, still others votes, and still others the satisfaction and pride of knowing they put one over on "the other side" and in some small way, subjugated their opponents.
My message to everyone out there watching these events unfold: be brave, stand firm, and don't be swayed by the fear mongering siren songs of those who claim to offer you protection. Only you can look out for you; trusting anyone else to do that in this world is a recipe for further tragedy.