More food for thought on the State of our "Union"

Yes, we have a complex, multi-faceted problem on our hands. It's exasperating to see such tragedies like Orlando exploited in the name of forwarding a political agenda or ideology. That helps no one; it solves nothing.

From my vantage point, and despite these incidents not being centrally coordinated, they have so many common elements. Of the most disturbing are vulnerable, unsuspecting people victimized at venues which can be considered a place of refuge; be it a school or a dance club. The randomness of it all further erodes our collective sense of peace and security. Not just as LGBT people, rather as people of this nation.

It's tragedy upon tragedy we have such an epidemic of polarization and violence. Not to oversimplify, I cannot imagine these two societal ills are unrelated.

First step in solving a problem is to admit there is one. These egregious problems pulling apart the delicate fabric of our society, threatening our very existence, they must be thoroughly examined from many angles. Many thoughtful solutions will be required before we realize positive, lasting results. First thing's first, we have to find way to shelf our differences and come together.

So much work lies ahead it seems overwhelmingly insurmountable. Each of us individually can make a difference having meaningful conversations around this, seeking to understand and to be understood.

May we all find common ground soon and a way forward to a peaceful, sustainable society ...