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Must be a good read, Peter.

To continue on the theme of evolution or de-evolution treating gunshot wounds in some instances must be included. Not too long ago a trauma center wouldn't see gunshot wounds from an AR-style rifle. On a rare occasion a wound originating from a hunting rifle. Now it is far too commonplace. I consider that a societal de-evolution.

Have ~wet eyes~ for those who witnessed mass shootings whether they be school-age children, adults, first responders, or medical staff. That is sometimes lost when the subject of weapons of war in a non-war zone is discussed. Typically there are many more first-hand witnesses than there are dead or wounded. There's a second order of effect beyond that circle to those who are present yet did not see the carnage yet experienced the intense fear factor once the brain recognizes what is happening and the ensuing responses to escape or survive. Those mental and emotional wounds (PTSD) can be life-altering as well.

By this time in the societal de-evolution the phrase "I never thought it could happen here in_______" needs replacing with "I was wondering when it would happen here in ______."

There are a plethora of measures that when adopted would reduce gun violence. One that doesn't require legislation or court approval is showing the carnage as some nations do. Pixelating faces or blurring them is easy. The carnage needs to be shown in print, on teevee, other e-media and in workplaces, schools, houses of worship, community centers, town halls, inside state capitol legislative chambers, to Congress, a gun ranges, rod and gun clubs, NRA and other gunkweer org gatherings, and on and on. Hopefully with some capture of sounds of gunfire and yes the sounds of those dying and wounded. Sadly can't capture the scents of a mass shooting whether the cordite or of blood.

Advocate for that due to how American society romanticizes and glorifies "war" and good guys v. bad guys in civ life that includes shootouts. The latter is often overlooked yet is more prevalent than war/combat.

There is one film that addresses both in a way that leaves the viewer with a far better understanding of all things related to violence, (physical-mental-emotional) The Flowers of War.

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