(Letter to the Editor - Graphic Illustration/MetroCreativeConnection)

Headlines around the country have recently seemed to have an increase in a particular kind of violence: against strangers. I’m not referring to mass shootings or shootings with innocent bystander victims, though both deserve our attention as well. But instead, cases like Ralph Yarl in Missouri, shot in the head for knocking on a door. Or Kaylin Gillis, shot and killed in New York for turning around in a driveway.

These cases, that give a whole new meaning to the meaning of the phrase “wrong place, wrong time,” seem to underscore the notion of our country becoming a less friendly place. A place more on edge, a place where a knock on the door or headlights in the driveway are threats that require a violent reaction. I see echoes of it even locally, with local social media groups warning against letting kids participate in door to door fundraising or of “suspicious” individuals captured on doorbell cameras doing nothing more than walking by. I’m not naive and think people should never have their guard up. But should every interaction with a stranger really cause butterflies in your stomach, or for your finger to be on the trigger?

Even modest restrictions on when, where, how, and who can carry a gun face uphill battles. If anything, most states (including West Virginia and Ohio) are moving the other way. But just because it’s legal to stand your ground doesn’t make it right. Maybe we as individuals, and as a community, can change the way we think about the people around us we don’t know. Remind yourself that maybe the person knocking on your door is lost and needs directions. Maybe the person who smiles and waves at your children in the mall is really just being friendly.

Maybe the driver who cut you off and gave you a dirty look is having a bad day and could use some grace. And, importantly, maybe before you put your hand on your gun, you can consider extending it in friendship.

Neal Wilson

Williamstown