In light of recent events, such as fatal shootings, I’ve seen many arguments against people offering their thoughts and prayers. The main issue people have is with politicians tweeting or giving a statement giving their condolences to the victims and families affected by the tragedy that occurred last weekend. While I understand their frustration with wanting a change in the way we as citizens are protected, or not protected, I do not understand the controversy of showing their compassion and sympathy.

It’s inarguable that the world we live in today is in need of love and positivity. We live in a society where there is a lot of anger and hatred. With that also comes blaming and negativity. I’m not writing this to take away from the severity of the issues surrounding any certain tragic event, but to maybe help people realize that hate only breeds more hate. It’s clear that there is a problem in our country, whether you think it’s gun control, mental health or something else, we can all agree we need a change. But I’m here to tell you that this change we so desperately need is not going to happen overnight. Laws and political party stances are not going to just magically change the way things are at the drop of a hat.

The fact that people are complaining about complete strangers offering their sympathy to those grieving is the exact opposite of anything in the direction of helping anyone. When someone we know has a loved one die, many people come around for that person and give thoughtful words and offer to be there if needed. While it doesn’t take away anyone's grief, it’s comforting to know that there are people to lean on in a time of need.

As another example, a young child was ‘attacked’ by an alligator and passed away. A lot of people online are attacking the parents for poorly taking care of their child. Do those people think the parents do not already feel bad for the accident? Do these people think the parents are not already going through enough with the loss of their child?

Tragedies and accidents happen daily. The contingency of circumstances surrounding an event, giving people sympathy should never be seen as a negative act. Without taking away from the severity and urgency of shootings in this country, in my opinion, we need to take a step back and fight for change in a respectful way. Yelling at those in power or complaining about the fact that there is an issue does absolutely nothing. I, as many others, do not have a magical solution for all these horrible events happening around us. Spreading love and sympathy to those in need and that are grieving, will never affect anyone in the way the negativity and victim blaming is.

Love will always prevail.