More Gunfire in Sunnyside

More gunfire occurred in Sunnyside recently, this time around 4th St.  Coaches advised high school students to be careful when leaving sports practice the day this happened.  What is upsetting is the endless seeking of “payback” by those perpetuating these acts of violence.  I can just imagine the mentality of these guys: “Your stupid gang did something to my stupid gang, so that means I have to do something to your stupid gang to get even.”  Then, afterwards, a member of the other gang starts thinking: “Your stupid gang did something to my stupid gang, so that means I have to do something to your stupid gang to get even.” 

Without being checked, this will be an endless cycle of violence and property damage.  It will not help the community, or the people involved.  There is an opportunity here for local church leaders to get involved.  Desmond Tutu was instrumental in breaking the cycle of violence in South Africa, with his Christian message of reconciliation.  While our situation in Sunnyside is vastly different, I believe local clergy could make a difference by taking a vocal stand against this violence.  This is something that cuts across denominational lines, so all of our churches could get together on this.  Just a thought, and a hope for things to get better.

See article in the Daily Sun News for more info.