On Thursday, July 7, 2016, our nation watched in horror as five police officers lost their lives due to a lone gunman, Micah Xavier Johnson. According to the Dallas Police Department, Johnson decided to take the lives of our heroes in blue because he "wanted to kill white people, especially white officers," because of the recent killings of several black men by police across the United States. This violence continued in Georgia, Missouri and Tennessee within the next couple of days. News stations continued to update the nation as the death tolls continued to rise. Still, officers continued to run with bravery towards the devastation that was trying to end their lives.

Immediately, social media began to erupt as people suddenly became experts on mass shootings, racism and the statistics of the circumstance at hand. Many began spewing their opinions as facts leaving them to be devoured by anyone who would listen within the world-wide web. These posts altogether created the very hate that these people wanted to see change. While an amount of hate is warranted in this circumstance, it should not be the focus. Our common ground as a nation should be to love and be loved in this time of mourning for the men and women who strive to protect us on a daily basis.

Norman police officer Carl Pendleton expresses his sorrow explaining, “My heart is broken for my partners, my brothers and sisters in blue who risk their lives to take care of strangers... My heart is mostly broken for those who will only use these events to further hate."

Our men and women in uniform leave their families everyday never knowing if it is the last time they will kiss their spouses goodbye or see their children. They miss precious family moments to care for complete strangers. They spend Thanksgiving and Christmas with their fellow officers instead of at home with their loved ones. Their wives sleep alone at night while we are at home feeling safe and secure. Their children must be strong and understanding when mom or dad must miss a birthday or school program. Despite their unimaginable sacrifices, our officers in blue continue to wear their badge with pride. They serve and protect our community and our nation with great bravery. It isn't just a job. It isn't just a uniform. It is an honor.