Each of us struggles with processing tragic situations replete with confusion, helplessness and lack of power. Prudence dictates that we question circumstances surrounding complex events that affect us all. Seeking information is a positive effort, though we will never have or know all the “facts,” in any context.
Abuse of power, when it does exist, is a costly and terrifying foe. I believe that a sincere quest toward community safety and peaceful coexistence was many residents’ motive in questioning law enforcement’s tactics used in their attempt to apprehend a destructive element in our midst.
Questioning and seeking broader understanding is an entirely different tack from reactionary blaming. Frankly, I was disheartened by some Homer citizens’ angry reactions — those who are blamers — who struck out at law enforcement without first seeking a comprehensive view of the whole situation.
I volunteered as an EMT in the Kuskokwim Valley and worked fighting fires and in emergency response for several years.
I know how it feels to be put into unpredictable situations, risking your own life in order to assist others. I know the informed dedication that it requires, and the need to act with integrity and decisive conviction when necessary, then to move on in your life. Perhaps if concerned citizens did some ride-alongs with emergency services personnel, we could join forces toward a common goal. Perspectives could broaden, agendas change, law enforcement would be more community-directed and enhanced, and our neighborhood would be a safer place to live. Re personal agendas, I shudder to imagine what my own reaction and behavior would be to someone selling or giving meth to my grandkids. I grew up in the drug funnel of Daytona Beach, Florida, in the ‘60s, and survived. Some of my friends did not. Regarding domestic violence, which was also a factor in the airport case, I have known or known of, within the small circle of my own life, over a dozen women and children who have been killed by the women’s partners. Are there any known risk-free solutions within escalated domestic violence cases? Our society hosts a guerrilla civil war. From my perspective, that Geo took the time to write his thoughtful response to this incident demonstrates a belief in the possibility for humans to learn and evolve in a positive way. In this moment, I’ll try to feed off that hope. Linda Marie Davis
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