I live in Knoxville, Tennessee. I know many people who attend the TVUUC (though, luckily, none of the victims). I am an atheist who is increasingly fearful to reveal his lack of faith in christian dogma precisely because of the kind of hate that manifested itself here.

The american conservative movement preys on people like Mr. Adkisson by telling them that “liberals in general as well as gays” are responsible for everything bad that happens in the world & that the only solution is to vote Republican to keep godless communists out of political office. This hate is constantly reinforced by political mouthpieces on tv (Fox “News”) & radio (Rush Limbaugh).

What he did was horrible and he should be punished. That said, I feel for the feeble-minded who place their faith in the words of people who, because they are on radio & tv, MUST know what they are talking about. He sought the only solution he felt he had left.

Our community will heal from this terrible tragedy. Our country may never recover from the irresponsible use of the power of words by the politically, economically and theologically motivated. I am not suggesting censorship. merely personal responsibility.

Yes, yes, but what about the tragic turn of events?