We seem to have an inordinate number of citizens who are confused about the 1st Amendment and freedom of speech.

We are all different in that our opinions are shaped by our unique life experiences. Part of our experiences is our parents and the culture we live in. We need to reflect on that before we take an action that is hurtful to another. When someone is a target in a disagreement, it does not mean they are deserving of wrath; not necessarily evil. This is a reason to have government; to deal with evil.

The 1st Amendment guarantees that you are not to be arrested for making statements critical of the government. Remember, the Revolutionary War was against a king who could say, 'Off with his head' if you spoke against him, his family, or his policies. This is the basis for the term - freedom of speech. And, we know you are not allow to yell 'Fire' in a crowded auditorium, nor incite a riot. You are also not allowed to say things that put your employer in a compromised position. They don't have to put up with it; they will take action up to and including firing you. It may well extend into your family or even to your friends They cannot fire you, but they - also - don't have to associate.

Practice ruth. A noun meaning to apply empathy and or pity. It is sorrow for the misery of another; sorrow for your own faults. Each time that I think of Mr. Kirk, I see a little girl running to her dad; being scooped up; getting a snuggle hug after he completed an interview. She lost that. And, usually, I also see a wife who received a snuggle hug on other occasions. She lost that.

The behavior of the senators of Pennsylvania are to be emulated. They are from different parties. They vote different values. They are respectful. They are friends. They are against murder; me too.