On September 10 when a gunman shot and killed conservative political activist, Charlie Kirk, in broad daylight on a college campus during a debate shock waves rippled throughout the country and prompted a variety of responses. Regardless of agreement or disagreement with his political stances, this was a senseless act of horrific violence that took the life of this man, and robbed his family of a husband, father, son and brother. We grieve this type of loss due to violence, which fails to see the image of God in each of us.
In addition, the context in which this crime occurred is a direct threat to freedom of speech. The Good Faith Podcast discusses Christian faith, ethics, and values in relation to current events and public life. This week on the podcast 
David French described this event by saying, “The bullet was aimed straight at the idea of the American Experiment.”1 This politically-motivated attack rejected the concept of healthy debate and exchange of ideas. In so doing, thousands of people witnessed a violent murder firsthand, then within minutes, millions witnessed it on social media, many of whom did not wish to see it. How on earth did our society get to this place in which going viral literally means that secondary trauma can spread rampantly and more exponentially than COVID? "We are not wired as human 
beings, biologically, historically — we have not evolved in a way that we are capable of processing those types of violent imagery," Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said at a recent press conference. "This is not good for us. It is not good to consume." 2 Studies have shown that viewing graphic, violent media can produce the same types of PTSD symptoms as if the person directly witnessed or experienced the trauma such as anxiety, distress, flashbacks, nightmares, hypervigilance, etc. The other concern is that for some, viewing such violence can normalize that type of violence response. The second source cited below is a great article that summarizes these concerns.
If you have been exposed to graphic, violent images, be extra intentional about creating a sense of calm and safety.
· Hangout with a close friend or family member who can offer encouragement
· Take a bubble bath
· Read a book for leisure
· Snuggle under a weighted blanket
· Schedule a therapy appointment if needed. Certain therapies like EMDR or Brainspotting can be very effective.
Overcoming Spiritual Divisiveness
Tragically, the level of both political and spiritual division in our country has reached violent levels that will be difficult to reverse. This spiritual division is now most apparent within Christianity, which is disheartening given how Jesus prayed for unity in his followers in the High Priestly Prayer in John 17. Christians are called to seek unity, which means seeking to understand those who see the world differently and see if we can find any common ground to build greater respect for differences. That’s the opportunity that I see for those of us who are still here. If we stay focused on our differences and allow anger to take over, then we won’t get out of this cycle of violence. In addition, people will grow 
more afraid to share their views publicly. On the contrary, if we can take the risk of slowing down to actually listen to those with different views, we might develop some empathy which could help to build bridges of respect. Listening means meeting with the person face to face if possible, not profile to profile on social media where the screen can be a barrier to honoring each others’ humanity. While social media can be a helpful tool when used properly, it also has the potential to become a boxing ring of dehumanizing interactions in which the spectators can join in the match and throw punches. Instead, coming together at a table can create a much better environment of safety and respect.
Sources:
1. Chang, C. & Frank, D. (Hosts) The Good Faith Podcast [Audio Podcast] “David French on Political Violence in America and Charlie Kirk’s Assassination.” https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/david-french-on-political-violence-in-america-and/id1594454747?i=1000727317117
2. https://www.npr.org/2025/09/18/nx-s1-5542231/kirk-shooting-violence-social-media