This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
The issues today surrounding guns in America remind me of the controversies around gay and lesbian rights about 15 years ago. At that time, I went to a symposium at the University of Utah that was presented by parents of gay and lesbian children.
Not only did these parents love and accept their children, but what struck me the most was their understanding of other people's fears surrounding rights for gays and lesbians. Their main goal was to embrace those fears lovingly, to help others move toward acceptance of their children. After seeing that, I knew that sooner or later they would achieve their goal.
After seeing and hearing the message from some of the parents of the children at Sandy Hook Elementary School, I recognized the same approach. They are embracing the fears of the gun advocates with a loving concern that will move us closer to what everyone wants: greater security for us all.
It may take a while, but in the end love will win.
David Hart
Torrey