Following the shooting of an unarmed man this past week by police, peaceful protests soon turned deadly in Dallas, Texas. Twelve people were shot including one civilian and leaving 5 officers dead. These shootings have not only Dallas in a state of panic, but the entire country as a whole. Our nation is in a crumbling state, dividing itself within our boarders and at this point, "United we stand, divided we fall," has lost its substance. While we should be united as one, worried about ISIS and other foreign terroristic threats, our biggest threat right now seems to be ourselves. Preconceived ideas and stereotypes are ripping this country apart and its time that we stop and all come to the same realization, we need to reestablish respect.

Not all officers and public safety members are racist and out to kill. Not all African Americans are dangerous. Not all white people are die hard white supremacists. It just doesn't work that way. One act of violence, purposeful or accidental fixes our eyes on the negative demeanors of other individuals and generalizes them as a whole whether it be law enforcement, Caucasians, African Americans, Muslims, etc. These stereotypes don't matter, but lives do. We need to reestablish respect all around. Respect for those individuals; police officers, firemen, armed forces, and all public safety officials who constantly risk their lives for ours. The ones who continually protect us, leaving their families each morning not knowing whether it could be the last time they get to say ‘I love you’. Respect for people, no matter the race who have civil rights and deserve respect because they are simply a person like you and I. Respect is a two way street and I hope that we can learn to respect each other before things escalate much further.

We are a nation, one nation under God and it seems we need him now more than ever. I pray that we find unity and love for one another in this dark world. This nation is capable of incredible things, but only as one. We should be focused on foreign threats, not the threats of our own. A country that I love with all of my heart has turned into a dark, confused, and terrifying place that at this point I would be horrified to raise my children in. I hope that we find a light and correct all of the hate that is prevalent, that we can respect every person despite their race or religious beliefs, and that we may turn to God in this time of need and despair and look for his guidance to reestablish ourselves as the great country that we are.

Lastly, I pray for the individuals and their families that have been impacted by this tragedy. God bless.