The tragic mass shooting at the Sikh temple in Wisconsin, coming just a few days after the tragic mass shooting at the theater in Colorado, continues a deeply disturbing American trend.

Since 1976, the U.S. has averaged 20 mass shootings a year – including 30 in 2003.

Why is America such a violent place? Why are we experiencing so many mass shootings? Is this sort of tragedy embedded in our DNA? What should we be doing about it?

Although not imbedded in our DNA, I grieve over how such violence is so deeply imbedded in our culture. The shibboleths enslaving us seem to be such notions as “might makes right”, “do your own thing” and “no rules”. Sometimes I am most distressed at those who oppose measures such as the Brady bill when that law was named for a victim loyal to President Reagan.

Republicans, Democrats and Independents alike should coalesce and enact common sense, enforceable preventive measures.