Burning Violent Games, a Bandaid to a Bigger Problem

So it seems a Connecticut town is set to burn violent video games, music and movies, in the wake of Sandy Hook Shootings http://www.guardian.co.uk/world/2013/jan/03/newtown-shooting-video-game-buyback With the argument of "Games desensitize children." I guess at some point, the constant barrage of violence one sees on the screen can have lasting affects. However is it the games fault? Does music and games really make killers?

For me it is not the games movies or music that is the issue. It is the lack of respect, love and compassion that isn't taught, that could be the issue. We do glorify violence, most of what is on the screen is set to some sort of pain directed at others. We advertise, fighting, murder and death, while seldom hearing about the good things in life. Now who is really to blame, the television and media for its constant separation and tact when dealing with these types of issues. Is it the parents for letting their young children witness more death and torture before the even hit puberty, or is it the mass marketing that is designed to push this. I myself don't play a lot of games, as most games that are fun have violence or some sort of killing, and the games that don't are quiet then the rest.

But we already know that sex and violence sells. That is all they have been selling us for years. Now what if we didn't advertise it so much, when we start teaching love and having these types of shows still there, but not pushed in the constant spotlight? I know there is no easy answer to this question, mob mentality is not one either. Burning things because we don't like them is not helping the situation. If your child is looking for this, they will find it no matter what. Why not try to talk to your children about the issue, instead of throwing anything you disagree with under the bus. Video games don't kill people, they also don't teach unity either. Most teach how to be soldiers, to be able to kill without reflection and most of those are created by the military, to build the all you can be's. Before you look to balme one thing or another, look at yourself and the things that you do. Remember most children are a reflection of your teachings. If you hold love and compassion they will to. You hold hate, racism or intolerance, then they are no better then you.

By teaching that we are all worth it, that all human life is worth more then anything else. Then hurting another doesn't become a score on a game, but a lesson in life.