Binghamton Hostage Situation

I want to update everyone on a terrible tragedy occurring right now in Binghamton, NY. There was a hostage situation at the American Civic Association, during a class on citizenship for immigrants, when a gunman with a high powered rifle came in. 13 people are confirmed dead—the gunman may be one of them.

Governor Paterson has came out and made a statement which he ended with “I speak for all of New York when I offer my prayers for the victims and families of this tragedy.” This sort of irresponsible representation of the governor’s constituents is, in my opinion, unacceptable. I am not going to harp on this or draw an undue amount of attention to it, but I do find it bothersome that someone has just spoken for me, implying that my “prayers” are with anyone. I do not pray, I do not believe in the effectiveness or utility of prayer. I find prayer to be self-indulgent and foolish and I am offended that this horrible event has been co-opted as an opportunity to perpetuate spiritual nonsense that says everyone believes. My dismay, my sadness, my terror may be there, my condolences may be there for the family and victims, but certainly not my prayers. I wish that the governor would be more careful with his words in the future.