More gun violence in the United States of America – truly a public health epidemic. There are outcries from liberals and progressives for action – as there should be. There has also been criticism of the pat – almost routine – offering of “thoughts and prayers” in the wake of tragic, unbelievable mass shootings. 
What good are thoughts and prayers with so much violence, much of which is preventable (at least when we consider that we are the only advanced democracy in the world where this keeps happening with such regularity)?
As we have noted in the past, the paranormal evidence suggests that praying is a way of directing energy and positive, loving intent into the universe. On the “other side” (in what we might think of as the afterlife), communication happens more through thought waves than language. So individual and communal prayer directed toward the common good, love, and peace is not wasted effort but an offering to other human beings and the universe.
Prayer is also necessary, according to practitioners and activists, for action-oriented people to center themselves and tap into an energy and love source greater than themselves. In other words, praying helps prevent burnout.
We all have our gifts, strengths, interests and talents. These varied personal traits can (and should) fit together with those of others to bring positive “vibes” into society. In this time of national grief, anger, despair and even hopelessness we can send our thoughts and prayers into the universe (and to each other) AND take action in our own environments and lives. We all know at least some of these actions, and there are many others:
- Keep abreast of what is happening in local and national politics (without making yourself depressed); this is important for citizens living in a democratic republic like ours.
- Discern where our candidates and elected officials stand on gun safety issues.
- Vote – in every election.
(Make sure ahead of time that you are registered to vote. There have been attempts in many states to impede voter registration.) - Run for office if that is your calling.
- Join organizations that serve the common good and that stand in solidarity with the oppressed and marginalized in our society.
- If able, financially support progressive candidates for office around the country and organizations and causes that enhance the common good.
- Use your social media to promote goodwill and information – and to fight hate and disinformation.
- Write letters to the editor of your local news outlets (if you have them!) and/or respond to others’ letters.
As we use prayer to sustain ourselves, let us also take action and stand together to protect our fragile democracy. 
Thus we might have hope that it will survive and perhaps even thrive for another 200+ years.