Vandalism is not an appropriate way to protest...

I've held my tongue about the rioting and protests that are going on all over this country to allegedly condemn the two policemen who acted to the best of their ability with devastating results: the deaths of two people who were being subdued for misconduct of some degree. Having said that as nicely as I could, the actions of the alleged protestors is the most reprehensible behavior that could be portrayed.

The rioters, looters, vandals, and other scofflaws who destroyed their own neighborhoods and towns, are nothing but criminals waiting for an excuse to act out their agressions and hatred. I applauded Charles Barkley for condemning the 'thugs' and speaking out in defense of the policemen who have difficult jobs.

This morning on NWPR, there was some discussion about the incidents that brought about such horrific behavior in the general population. There was mention of a number of just how many 'bad cops' there might be: 5%, and one fellow said it was probably less than that. I doubt that neither of the two policemen who not charged or indicted for their actions was a 'bad cop.'

If you look at the population in general, how many 'bat citizens' are there?  How many people are in prison for various crimes?  What is the percentage of 'bad' to 'good?'

The problem, in my opinion, is that in general, people have become lulled into thinking that they don't have any responsibilities when it comes to their own actions.  When you watch a 'flash mob' sing the Hallelujah! chorus it give you good feelings and brings a smile to your face. When you watch a 'flash mob of rioters and looters,' it strikes fears and loathing in your heart, or at least it does to me. Why would anyone participate in looting and burning a store in your neighborhood, owned by one of your neighbors?  What justification could one possibly point to?

Ghandi said, 'Be the change you wish to see.'  Does this mean the rioters and looters, and thugs are showing us what they think society should be like?  I pray to God that is not the case.

I would much rather see the policeman hug the young man who was protesting quietly, and who both had the good sense to talk about reality.

If people who profess to be Christians truly had Christian hearts, they would offer kindness and hope, not hatred and judgment.  I am not anyone's judge, and while I may have an opinion, I leave the judgment to God.

Unless there is forgiveness, no healing takes place. And that's the truth.