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I think the anti- “thoughts and prayers” meme is more tired than the condolences people offer. Complaining about expressions of sympathy gets zero traction in trying to convince people of policy views.
Here’s the thing: People (aside from mfm) are generally fine with prayer and condolences. What people are complaining about is that the people who have the power to do something about it (politicians) refuse to do something about it. “Thoughts and Prayers,” is a non-answer designed to pacify the masses, rather than anything sincere.
Politicians express condolences when tragedies are in the news. There are sincere differences of opinion on whether a shooting indicates a policy change is needed. The idea that politicians don’t feel sorrow for the victims and/or secretly agree with the call for more gun control is not true.
The anti-thoughts/prayers meme was effective in binding gun control to a narrative that prevents real dialogue. Some don’t care about persuading others or are convinced it’s futile. That’s where our society has headed on most issues. Something happens and we recite the usual mantras and impugn the other side.
so let me get this straight. you think that what you label the “anti-thoughts/prayers meme” is what is trying to prevent real dialogue? You are very wrong. those who are sick of the ‘our thoughts are with you’ words from politicians are sick of it precisely because this is what those politicians are doing in place of real dialogue. They say this, and then move on to other things they care about.