Photo: Wounded Knee Cemetery, SD

 During the 1800's there was a great deal of fear and anger between groups of settlers and Native Americans that erupted into violence. Attempts at avenging wrongs often resulted in attacks on innocent members of both groups, which created more anger. The anger was natural and justified, but the response led to shameful actions like the slaughter by U.S. troops of over 200 Lakota civilians who were camped at Wounded Knee under a white flag.

During the 1950's and 60's, African Americans were justifiably angry over the injustices of segregation and KKK sponsored violence. That anger powered the non-violent Civil Rights movement that caused positive changes in our laws and society.

    Much of what is on the news evokes fear or anger.  We (or at least many of us) can choose to respond by retreating into our safe bubble or by getting involved with working for an improvement.