The unfolding tragedy in Ferguson, Missouri

Published 9:50 am Tuesday, August 26, 2014

The police shooting of the unarmed teenager. The subsequent release of a store cctv coverage of the same teenager, with accomplices, stealing from the small store and obviously intimidating and manhandling the store owner. The ongoing rioting, looting and destruction of any vulnerable target. The media salivating at every piece of commentary from wherever and whatever. On and on and on.

Understandably, one’s thoughts and emotions are stretched and pulled in all manner of directions.

So, let’s consider some common-sense aspects surrounding the overall, unfolding epic.

The actual shooting and circumstances that led to the tragic death of a teenager will unfold, be made public and subjected to dissection by everyone and their dog, so, put that to one side.

The scenes of peaceful protest were noble, legal and part of the American way.

The ongoing escalation into looting and destruction is another story. This aspect of criminal behavior begs the question:

What reasonable man, woman, child, family, or business would choose to be where such primitive, uncultured behavior is so easily reached?

Whatever their background, beliefs, religion, or race, the overwhelming message here is that the reasons, excuses, blame and PR agents that endeavors to find new calm, cannot erase the images of such atrocious, social reaction.

Any community infested with such a disproportionate level of hatred is doomed by its own self-induced destruction.

Decent people, families and businesses will find elsewhere to live and set up. Potential new settlers and business will be deterred.

The destroyers will wonder why and carry on blaming all, but themselves.

Alan Jackson
Poulsbo