Sunday Newscape Magazine

Regrettably I have to retract my message from my previous column. Perhaps I was thinking too optimistically when I wrote “Pulling Together” as a way to inspire others to trust again. My message of hope could be considered just a blur as numerous headlines about corrupt politicians and sexual predators are front and center in every newspaper and on every news station.

Is this how Americans think, or is this what the media wants us to think? I keep asking myself this frustrating question everyday. It’s a fact that our priorities have been manipulated to except these heinous acts as acceptable. Why else would these headlines be front and center all the time. Glorifying those who don’t deserve the time or day and who think they are above the law always seems to get people’s attention, therefore, these stories get top priority.

The point is do we really need to know the exact details of what a rapist or pedophile did to their victim? That is like adding fuel to a fire to a demented mind. It promotes criminals and hurts the victims. Moreover, politicians in Washington are just as guilty. The ramped corruptness and headlined back door deals only discourage law abiding citizens not to follow the rule of law, but find a way around it. But there is change on the horizon.

At a recent book signing for one of my favorite authors I was lucky enough to be first in line. I met numerous people who shared the same belief I have. These people were not optimists, but realists. There was no more turn a blind eye and hope for the best attitude, these people wanted answers.

Having to admit my optimistic views about life in general caused me a lot of pain throughout my life. No praying or hoping will change a situation for the better. It is when you face the problem first hand and develop a way to solve it that change will be created. Sure you can always hope for the best and pray for those involved, but when you realize the reality of a situation and the potentially harmful outcome you must stand by you beliefs and not be afraid to speak up.

Promoting and glorifying bad people who do bad things is not something that should be headlined, but shunned. Information is always helpful, but inundation is harmful and leads to mistrust among others. As a society we want to put out the fire and not add fuel to it.

© Jerry Maldonado-2009 all rights reserved  This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it