The discussion should include an understanding of our role in shaping the lives of young people and a reexamination of their role in our society. The question is not whether or not there will be another incident like that at Columbine High School, but what we can do to make outcomes different for other young people in this country. Interpreting the events at Columbine is like looking into a kaleidoscope. With each twist, the pieces are reassembled to form new patterns that exaggerate different parts. The viewer ultimately interprets the pattern.
Impressions change over time as the kaleidoscope turns.
Similarly, the nation's view of young people is based upon events at a particular moment. Sometimes the way the pieces are arranged produces a picture of the positive contributions of young people, their energy, creativity, and idealism. The Colorado events caused viewers to reinterpret the images. As the kaleidoscope turns and the parts settle, the viewers see new sides, different angles. Interpretation of the patterns determines individual and collective actions.