Ripples from tragedy felt throughout state

Hundreds of miles away, the shootings in Omaha are having an effect.

Even in far Southwest Nebraska, few of us have not visited the West Roads mall, and all of us can empathize with those involved with the tragedy.

Sadly, one of the victims grew up in our region, and in a state as small as Nebraska, we're sure there are other ties to the area.

How many of us can watch a jewelery or clothing commercial on television without thinking about the shoppers and store employees gunned down as they prepared for the Christmas holiday?

Sure enough, both sides of the gun control battle have seized upon the shootings to make their points.

Some news releases say the event illustrates the need to control assault-type rifles. Others say it illustrates the need for private citizens to be able to carry weapons.

In truth, there was little time to react; all of the shooting, including the troubled teen's suicide, was done in a matter of minutes.

And, while the adults involved in the case certainly do bear some responsibility, everyone needs to realize that the shooter's actions, misguided as they were, were entirely his own decision and his own actions.

By all accounts, he was usually a kind, helpful young man. Yes, in hindsight, something should have been done to stop him, but those who missed the chance should be forgiven for being human, and should forgive themselves as well.

Yes we all do need to be more vigilant, from those involved with troubled teens, to those who work security in public buildings, to law enforcement.

But we must not let tragedies like Wednesday's mall shootings to prevent us from living life to the fullest.

We must not let a deranged few rob us of our freedom.