PRESIDENT’S CORNER

Dear friend,

Is there a solution to the mindless and senseless mass shootings that keep occurring in our nation — most recently the twin mass murders in El Paso, Texas, and Dayton, Ohio? I would say there is at least one way to address this tragic issue!

Just at the end of last month, we honored exemplary parents around the nation on the occasion of National Parents’ Day, which is a federal holiday observed annually every fourth Sunday in July. (See related article below.) Don't you think it would make a huge difference in reducing the murder rate if we had more exemplary parents such as these?

What distinguishes these parents are certain qualities that are not so easy to find these days, because they are not easy to practice, such as sacrifice, loyalty between husband and wife, community service, faith in the Creator, and Godly values and lifestyles. We call that "true" parenting. Our youth have very few role models such as these to emulate when it comes to their parents and upbringing. Would you not agree?

Therefore, there is a call for righteous, caring, God-loving fathers and mothers (no matter what their religion) to take action, go beyond our own comfort zone and be mentors — to our young men in particular. Most likely, many have never been truly cared for, loved, and guided in morals, principles, and responsible behavior, and thus have never learned how to deal with their anger and find constructive solutions. Shall we answer the call? No law or government program can truly resolve this issue, which is an issue of the heart.

Let us continue to highlight, celebrate and create more wholesome families and thus provide a family culture that fosters an environment where killing someone over resentment or anger toward them is never even considered.

Have a good rest of the summer, and may the rest of this year be a more peaceful one!

Angelika