'Idiot's' deadly action sadly not uncommon

At 12:05 a.m. on Jan. 1, 2008, I lay in bed listening to fireworks laced with the sounds of semi-automatic gunfire. It came from two different directions. I knew it was not so far away, and could travel to my windows or even through a brick wall. I hoped it went straight up.

I awoke to the news that one round did not go straight up. I am so sad that a child is the undeserving victim of a random act of total stupidity and disregard for human life and safety.

I taught at the Gibbs Village Head Start Center in the community center when it opened in the late 1960s. We made home visits and I had no fear in the evenings as I walked the streets to check about ill or absent children.

I was the teacher. They liked me. There was mutual respect and apparent safe surroundings. I had started at Madison Park with Mrs. Etra Seay, and also felt no trepidation, as I visited there.
I am retired now, but must admit I do not understand why things have gone to the current status quo. I worked with some wonderful, dedicated individuals who tried, as did I, to promote respect and social pride. I wish I had been more effective and am sorry I was not more so.

I don't blame the city, the police or the neighbors. I blame one idiot. The only problem is there is another one waiting. I urge us all to not have let this child die in vain.

West Marcus
Montgomery