Letter to the Editor: Legislating against tragedy not the answer

Through tears we try to attach meaning to tragedy. The how and why troubles us. Yes, it would be nice if there were no guns, stones, clubs, cudgels, bows and arrows, crossbows, knives, spears, cannons or bombs.

Legislation cannot prevent tragedy, mental illness or criminal intent. Nor does the answer lie in security unless it affects every facet of our lives, but Americans value freedom too much to put up with inspections and containment, even at great cost. And there are those who fear “Big Brother” more than the occasional psychopath.

The true sadness of losing innocent human beings comes fr...