Gabrielle Giffords'

It is with deep sadness that I would like to extend my condolences to both Congresswoman Giffords and the families of those victims who lost their lives or were wounded during the senseless attack of Jared Lee Loughner, and most especially to the family of nine year old Christina Taylor Greene.

No doubt at some point gun control will once again enter the picture, but for the moment let us as Americans band together to mourn the loss of these innocent people and come together in an understanding that this is America. As such we argue, view politics differently from one another, and are even passionate in our beliefs. BUT! Under no circumstances do our belief system and our political system require that violence be a part of that process. We’re Americans for God’s sake! We are better than that and better than those third world nations that take these things in stride as a normal part of their political system.

Congresswoman Giffords faces a long and extremely difficult recovery, and as of yet her prognosis is questionable. We hope that she is able to make a full recovery and will eventually be able to resume her duties as Congresswoman for the state of Arizona.

This past political cycle has been one of extreme passion and anger. I implore all of us, Republican and Democrat to sit back and think upon what America is and what it can be for better or worse. I also implore all to remember that despite the anger and rhetoric it is never necessary to resort to violence.

May God bless Gabrielle Giffords’ and lift into his arms those who lost their lives bringing solace to their families.

Bill English