I cannot discuss health without discussing the issue of well-being. I cannot discuss health or well-being without remembering Littleton, Colorado, March 20, 1999. On one hand, gun violence should not surprise us.
Guns are the second leading cause of death of young people between the ages of ten and twenty-four.
We are tormented by the soullessness and mean-spiritedness of the act. More important, I am concerned we seem to be turning a deaf ear to the silent screams of pain and rage many of our youth today feel. We appear to be starving our young people's minds and spirits. At this point in our history, where we spend less time with our children than ever before, I wonder if young people are not suffering a form of deprivation that is stunting positive youth development. On the other hand, I am hopeful because at this time in my life I am working for an organization that not only addresses prevention and treatment but also preparation, promotion, and productivity.