Trying times, difficult times have caused people in all societies to turn to individual sources of strength. Most people, whether living in a “civilized” nation or not, turn to their religion.

Others look inward or turn to family and friends. That is a choice worldwide. What “works” for some does not “work” for all. Those without jobs, in financial distress, and worry about losing their homes or how to care for their children are among the millions in this nation. The elderly are at risk from malnutrition, inadequate heating, poor health and depression. The solutions are in the future but no one can predict when the situation will “get better”. It is no longer about which political party is “right”, the reality of increasing natural disasters, or being “saved” because one has professed openly to believing in a higher being. It has come down to the basics ... surviving a time where morals and opportunity collide. We are a desperate and troubled society moving forward without direction or sound reason. Some are opportunists, like parasites, harming others. Violence is increasing and there is no end in sight.

During the depression of 1930s, the rate of suicide dramatically increased due to lack of jobs and depression. Violence has turned outward during these trying times. This nation has the highest prison population in the entire world costing millions of dollars annually to maintain, yet people oppose the death penalty. Other nations have lower crime rates because of more severe punishment. Something is wrong with a system when a child can be harmed and the perpetrator is released a few years later. This proud nation is breaking down and the possibility of an internal drastic change looms ahead. Citizens should turn to one another and put aside differences. Survival should be a priority.

Patricia Davis

Hamlet