My thoughts go out to the people of the Austin area - unpredictable violence is always terrible when it comes close.
The alienation of some people from the society they live in is always present. Tom Douglas and Allen Shamblin tried to catch the feeling in "The House That Built Me"
"I thought if I could touch this place or feel it
This brokenness inside me might start healing
Out here it's like I'm someone else
I thought that maybe I could find myself
If I could just come in"
But, although the aim of music bringing people together and finding healing in their memories is laudable - it's not going to be enough in every case. One difference today is the climate of exaggerated bitterness in public life and discourse - it's so pervasive in social media, and sections of broadcasting, politics and even religion seem to endlessly play up confrontation and encourage a lack of tolerance and understanding for others. Even in general contexts, it's not conducive to mutual respect, and in people who are disturbed for whatever reasons, it can contribute to tipping them over the edge.
