Handbaskets

As in what the world seems to be heading to Hell in.

People are killed all of the time in this country--we often get numb to the tragedies until something comes along that boggles even the most jaded imaginations. This is what I think happened last week after the murders of school girls in Lancaster County, PA. The Amish, according to the agreed-upon script for our society, are supposed to be interesting, quaint relics of some previous era who don't mind serving as tourist attractions. In exchange, they are granted immunity from the evils inherent in society at large.

Last week, we, the "English" didn't keep our part of the bargain.

The news coverage after the shootings was remarkably respectful. It was really amazing--no "Camp OJ." The Amish were admired for their simplicity, faith and consistency--especially in their forgiving of the man who took five of their daughters from them.

I think that those of us who wondered "if it can happen to the Amish, then is anyone safe?" hoped we'd be marked by the same faith, courage and certitude if faced with tragedy.

To which, as nuclear tests in North Korea, body bags in Iraq and kidnapped fetuses demonstrate, we are none of us immune.

Saints George, Joan of Arc, Martin of Tours, Sebastian and Michael the Archangel, pray for my nephew who graduates from Basic Training this Friday.