I have been listening to televised discussion of the racially motivated murders in Charleston. Repeatedly I have heard laments over racial hatred and lauds for forgiveness. Appropriate topics they are, but one topic goes missing.

The shooter grew up in a country whose citizens repeatedly and often entertain themselves with stories of violence. We, as a nation, are guilty of eroding aversion to violence.

When the bubonic plalgue hit Europe not everyone died. Some were more vulnerable than others. Not everyone, but some succumb to our fascination with violence. When a culture immunizes itself from violence, it should expect violence to prevail.

Remove some Confederate flags? Fine. Outlaw guns? There are advantages and disadvantages. But repentance over our chosen entertainment – that would make a difference.