I didn’t mean to start off spring semester with such a heavy topic, but I couldn’t help it. So most of us have heard about the tragic shooting in Tucson, Ariz., where Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords was shot by Jared Lee Loughner. Loughner – who was allegedly motivated by his political views – killed six people, injured 14 and left Giffords in critical condition, literally fighting for her life. My heart goes out to all of their families. However, Loughner’s political views aren’t the only thing under scrutiny. Loughner is also believed to suffer from schizophrenia.
My problem, first and foremost, is the blame-game. Mark A. Kalish, a practicing psychiatrist and teacher at the University of California, San Diego, said one of the key symptoms of schizophrenia is a lack of awareness and denial that anything is wrong. That’s a scary thought. I can’t imagine not being in control of a situation, let alone myself. So who is at fault here – Loughner or his loved ones who didn’t force him to seek help?
It devastates me to hear of these types of incidents because as much as I want to blame the assassin, a part of me feels guilty. Why? I think it’s because a part of me doesn’t think he knows any better or can help himself. I mean, I’m trying to write this column on deadline, and I’m feeling bad for myself for having a panic attack. So I can’t help but to sympathize with the guy just a teeny, tiny bit.
The real question is: How can we keep these tragedies from happening again? My suggestion is for all the families and close friends to those who seem like they suffer from some illness to seek help. There is nothing wrong with admitting that you need a little support. I think – for some people – asking for help sometimes carries this social stigma of weakness, and I disagree with this. Hopefully, someday it’ll get to the point where people will stop trying to deal with these issues on their own. And when it does get to this point, we can see a decrease in the amount of these heart-wrenching stories.
Furthermore, I’m not sure I agree with the way the media is covering this story. As opposed to focusing on the shooting, they’re focusing more on Loughner’s illness. Is this the right approach? I understand the guy’s illness plays a great role in this case, but shouldn’t we hold him accountable for what recently happened? Instead, I feel like everyone is talking about his past and the lack of attention he has received. Well, we’re in the moment now, and I think it’s time for him to face the consequences.
Finally, what is with all of the hate, people? Political criticism is one of the alleged reasons that caused this catastrophe, so maybe we should ease up a bit. Regardless of Loughner’s illness, it makes me sad to see how one’s opinion can change another’s life. Neither Giffords nor the other 20 victims deserved what came to them. What happened to the times when people simply agreed to disagree? I believe in making love not war, and this is one of many cases where that’s not happening. I encourage each and every one of you to pause and consider the power of your words the next time you wish to give your opinion or constructive criticism. Some are more sensitive than others, so there’s nothing wrong with taking some consideration into account.
– Ashley Rahimian can be reached at [email protected].
