Unrelated news items that pulled me in:
A kiss can be the most intimate of expressions – its true intent known only to those in the exchange, yet interpreted by all who witness it. Unfortunately, too often the reaction to that exchange, and to the relationship, by others outside of it is not one of acceptance. Where does this end?
Passion is not limited to relationships. Sometimes it’s expressed as the pursuit of, and love for, an activity. Sadly, tragedy can bring an end to that passion in its last moments.
Extremes
reaction to a simple kiss by
religion of terrorism
to proclaim an ideology
passion for great heights
and the open air
swept away in a moment
following news with shields down
remind self that weight of sadness
greatest for families devastated
Over the years, I’ve learned to reserve my emotions when reading or viewing tragic news. I don’t turn them off, so I suppose I compartmentalize them. I didn’t do that today. First, in following the news about the mass shooting in Orlando; and then, reading about a hot air balloon tender who fell to his death when winds swept the balloon away after the riders disembarked. Sometimes I have to remind myself that my sadness is incidental.
rivrvlogr 
This is a great response to a terrible happening, the words drew me in wonder one to the next, even though the subject matter great disturbed and upset me. Best wishes and blessings, Charles.
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The outpouring of support for the families in both incidents is the only positive in these tragedies, but it gives me hope for humanity.
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Yes it is fortunate there is some good that can come from such a terrible incident.
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It is truly quite devastating how much anger and sickness is there.
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Regardless of the motives (and I don’t say that to trivialize the matter), here in the States, debate continues over the right to bear arms – including the assault weapon used in Orlando. Sadness.
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I doubt if that right will ever change. There are so many weapons in your country and it is such a huge industry that the profit motive will win out in the end. (PS I have found it necessary to make my blog private but I would not like to lose contact so please go to the WP and hit the request link.)
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Agreed.
(And done.)
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Excellence of capturing this life, sadness and reasons, tragedy brings out the works, poets and humanity…excellent Ken, truly.
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Thank you, Kim. One day later, and it’s still too overwhelming. I can’t ignore the news, but I’ll be filtering a little more today.
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I’m surrounded by it down here….I detest these times, I’m all about the love and understanding and I’m a big believer in getting help for mental issues….I think just not enough to go around, people falling through the cracks who need the help or people too busy to try to help those in need. sigh. Peace and love, K
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It’s difficult to know how to respond anymore. (K)
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I agree. Indifference is unacceptable, but 100% investment can be so overwhelming.
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It is difficult to know how to respond. This one really shook me, and then there’s the realization that it’s “this one” because there have been so many.
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Too many.
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