“Our hearts and prayers go out to the victims and their families.”

Once again hollow meaningless words from leaders addressing another tragedy. Nothing more is done and life goes on as before.

Unfortunately, that is all that can be said or done. This country is awash in guns of all types, legally and illegally owned, and thousands are manufactured and sold every day. 

Since the Supreme Court considers most everyone in the country part of a “well-regulated militia,” restrictions on purchase and ownership of guns is limited. There are a few federal laws that restrict ownership by felons and others considered a risk and several states have enacted laws concerning training, magazine size, and permitting. But few comprehensive and countrywide restrictions exist, except for a ban on machine guns and short-barrel rifles.

At this point, however, I don’t think any legislation will make any difference in what has become widespread use of guns for illegal activities and murder. Gun ownership is too widespread. Knowing who has them, somehow controlling their use, or confiscating them is a fool’s effort. So, I guess we just have to get used to mass shootings, murders, and armed robberies, and live as best we can under the circumstances.

Ken Kaiyala
12-15-2025