Savages

My title does not refer to the full-length feature film in theaters nor the book it was based on.  I cite the term Savages to reference our society and our thirst for pain, suffering and carnage.

In light of the events in Colorado, and of years past, we have always had this innate desire/curiosity to observe unfortunate events at the expense of our "brothers and sisters," fellow human beings regardless of race and sex.  Events as horrible and senseless as Colorado to things as petty as car accidents along the freeways.  

We as a society dwell on these events like Co., plastering it all over the news, including the suspect's arraignment, plead, personal history, characteristics, family, social life, etc.  I'm all for being informed with current events, understanding history and not making the same mistakes - however, I'm sure in two weeks - even up to months, we will undoubtedly revert back to this event and continue reporting about it.  All we are doing is giving the suspect the fulfillment of being a celebrity and giving him just what he wants, the publicity.  Worst, the amount of publicity given to him and his actions, cause others to learn more and potentially copy cat this horrific event.  We don't want to see that, I don't want to see that.

What irks me the most is with accidents on the road.  This past Tuesday, I was driving up the 405 North where there was a pretty bad 3 car accident.  It was two sedans and a pick-up truck.  The car crash was enough to essentially block the two inside lanes (carpool and fast lane).  Naturally people on the 405 North had to slow down and eventually those in the blocked lanes had to merge with the other three lanes - thus it is understandable that it was slow and there would be traffic.  Instead of focusing on the accident, I noticed on the other side of the freeway divider - cars were piling up - slowing down to observe the crash - I was astound to see cars backed up 15 miles back.  Mind you, this is at 11:30am where there are typically little congestion.  Traffic on the opposite side was 10 miles more than on the side the accident actually happened.  

Whether it is a fatal event or a minor fender bender - we seek any means to fulfill our thirst for affliction.