During a recent “listening session” at the White House, President Trump met with survivors, students, and families affected by school shootings, including the tragic event at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School. The purpose was to allow these individuals to share their experiences and suggest ways to enhance student safety amid the ongoing gun violence crisis. However, the event quickly drew attention for a different reason: the president was seen with a page of notes that appeared to guide him on how to express empathy and compassion.
It’s disheartening to realize that the leader of the nation required written prompts to convey sympathy to those who have faced unimaginable loss and trauma. The notes revealed phrases such as, “What would you most want me to know about your experience?” and “What can we do to help you feel safe?” Yet, it was the fifth item that sparked the most discussion: “I hear you.” This seemed to indicate that someone had to remind Trump to acknowledge the pain of the survivors—something that should be instinctive for a president.
The notes were not hidden well, making it easy for photographers to capture this moment. The implications were significant; it suggested that without these reminders, Trump might default to discussing unrelated topics like crowd sizes or his luxurious decor. This is not likely an exaggeration, given his past behavior.
As an American, it’s frustrating to see the president struggle with basic human decency when addressing those who have suffered from such tragedies. He should not need notes to express concern for grieving students and families.
As images of Trump’s notes circulated on social media, Twitter users quickly reacted. However, it’s essential to remember that Trump has a history of deflecting blame onto others, including the very students he was supposed to support.
In times of national crisis, citizens look to their leaders for guidance and comfort. The horrific shooting in Parkland is a prime example of a moment when empathy should come naturally. It should not take written reminders for a president to show that he cares.
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In summary, the image of Trump relying on notes to express empathy during a significant moment of national mourning is a troubling reflection of our leadership. It underscores the need for genuine compassion, particularly when addressing the profound impact of gun violence on our communities.