An envious basketball hall of famer recently criticized the outstanding performance of a current star, Stephen Curry. Despite the critique, Curry’s skills have propelled him to unprecedented heights in the NBA. As one of the more seasoned individuals in law enforcement, I’d like to offer a contrasting perspective regarding our current officers.
They routinely encounter challenges in far greater numbers than before, often facing handicaps imposed by political pressures that strike with the suddenness of a Sidewinder missile. What was once a major news story has become commonplace, leading to desensitization, unless we find ourselves directly amidst the chaos.
These thoughts arose while watching news reports of yet another mass shooting, this time in Hesston, Kansas. I have family residing in this town of approximately 3700 people—a place I visited during a motorcycle ride a few months prior—one of whom was working at Excel, the site of the shooting. The reports indicated three fatalities and fourteen wounded.
The further our culture drifts from the traditional values that unite us, the more frequent these tragic events become, and no one is immune. Some may misguidedly attribute blame to race, the weapon used, or some other concoction of factors. However, the root cause lies elsewhere! It stems from a condition of the heart that influences the brain. The more spiritual and social damage inflicted upon our vital life-sustaining system, the greater the likelihood of a short circuit within our minds.
Psychoanalyze it all you want. Cops on the street will tell you it’s that simple! In the past, even those who disregarded spiritual realities were still guided by societal norms that provided a solid foundation. That foundation is eroding.
Therefore, I commend Chief Doug Schroeder, who bravely stormed the building and neutralized the shooter in Hesston! He will likely never be featured on a baseball card or grace the cover of People Magazine. He and his profession may be disparaged by some. Yet, his actions hold far greater value to the survivors than the millions of dollars paid to athletes for their athletic prowess.
Hurrah for the cops! I give them a standing ovation!