“Empathy” is my word for today. It seems that too many people follow rigid personal convictions that end up hurting others. But after a dose of personal experience, they are “born again.” Here are some examples that strike me with empathy.

The red flag law — one piece of gun control: El Paso County is a “sanctuary” county where our sheriff said he will not initiate a red flag court order. Meanwhile, the Douglas County sheriff is a staunch defender and enforcer of the law because one of his own was killed by a known nut-case gun owner. He was filled with empathy after a personal experience.

The proposed law protecting same-sex marriage rights for gay couples: What a hot-button item, especially for many “conservatives.” But, if they have a child who is gay, they are suddenly faced with a dilemma: love the child or (fill in the blank). Our former vice president was faced this choice. So yesterday, finally, a bipartisan bill passed through the Senate.

Assault weapons ban — another piece of gun control: The law was passed in 1994 and expired in 2004. So where are we now? We could have had a mass shooting in Congress on Jan 6. Members of Congress were running for cover not knowing if the mob was armed. These are the same folks who send their thoughts and prayers to the families of children blown to bits by assault weapons. When will they feel the true empathy and end this madness?

Peter Knepell Colorado Springs