We first heard the news when my in-laws called from Japan to ask if my kids in England were all right. They are nowhere near London so I wasn't worried but several others called to ask if they were. I called this evening and.... they are fine.

I am so relieved to know that our Mudcat brethren and sistren are fine and so heartbroken to know that so many people have had their lives torn apart by this senseless violence.

On the one hand this is a wanderful world when people around the globe can pull together to help each other in times of need. I am in Guam, my in-laws are in Japan and do not speak English. They were worried about two young adults they have never met and possibly never will meet. The two young people in question are literally on the other side of the world from us. Also in this thread are people who have never met and people who are old friends and, with the exception of the trolls and flamers, we are all agreed that violence is not the answer.

And then there are those who reject the future and the melding of the human race into one big family. They strike out with words, guns, and bombs. They are both educated and ignorant. Some of them are rich but most of them are poor. They come from all walks of life and represent all races, creeds, religions and genders. We appeal to them to lay down your weapons. Make a stand for decency and peace.