They Aren't Bad

So I keep being asked what I think about these police shootings.  Instead of focusing on my opinions on the topics, I'd like to touch on a related one instead.  Prepare yourself because some of you may not like this....

I don't believe the police are bad.  I'm sorry, I don't.  I don't believe that they are hunting anyone.  In fact, I believe just the opposite.  I believe that the vast majority of police officers are amazing souls that just want to do their job, protect people and do good for their community.  Are there bad cops?  Sure.  Just like there are bad bakers, janitors, businessmen, babysitters, and more.  I believe that 99% of police officers, though, are just doing their jobs.

I do believe there are some unjustified shootings but I believe that the vast majority are justified.  Stats back up that there are more gang killings than police shootings daily, yet the media focuses solely on what draws in ratings and stirs the pot. Should the officers that shoot people willy nilly (people of ANY color) be punished?  Yes!  However, if you are not going to comply with police, you are putting their safety at risk too and they have a right to protect themselves and those around them.  You may not have anything in your pocket but if you won't take your hands out, they are trained to assume there's a reason.  You may not have anything in your car beside you but if you're leaning over with your hands out of sight, they have reason to assume that you might have something there.  I'm not saying it's okay for cops to just assume and shoot but you have to really look at their training before you assume they're just shooting for no reason.  

So what should you do if you are ANY color, religion, culture or creed and you are approached by a police officer?  Follow their instructions.  If they say "hands up," put them up.  Even if they don't, go ahead and put them up.  If you have a weapon on you (a concealed carry, etc), TELL THEM.  Don't reach for it.  Tell them that you have a weapon and THEY will come and take it to handle their business if needed.  Follow their instructions and your risk of being "taken out" is minimal...we're talking lower than your chances of being hit by a car crossing the street.

Instead of focusing on all of this hatred, let's work on changing what needs to be changed.  Let's educate citizens more on how to handle things.  Let's educate police officers in training exercises to be more prepared for some of these situations.  Let's get out there and TALK about how to change things...not because of skin color or religion or anything of the sort...let's talk about how to come together as a nation and do something great.