7 Brutal Truths About Why Thoughts and Prayers are Not Enough

The Weight of Ineffective Leadership

I’m so sick of thoughts and prayers.

When I worked in the corporate world, I held a leadership role that didn’t come naturally to me. If I’m honest, I wasn’t great at it. I understood that if the team failed, I failed. So, I took on everything they didn’t. Within a year, I was burned out, and my team wasn’t growing because I didn’t foster an environment for them to thrive.

Now, I live in a city where leadership feels just as ineffective.

The Year of Violence in Kinston

2022 will be remembered as the year violence gripped my small Southern city. While the world debated inflation and gas prices, Kinston residents faced a graver issue: shootings. Teenagers lost their lives, leaving behind grieving families and a community drowning in sorrow.

How many deaths will it take for leaders to act? So far, their response has been limited to “thoughts and prayers.”

Empty Promises and Public Prayers

A few weeks ago, I attended a press conference where community leaders addressed the rising violence. They spoke of “intentional targets” and encouraged citizens to “fight for the city and take it back.”

But what does that mean?

Are there organized patrols or neighborhood watches?
Are citizens expected to risk their lives to stop violence?
How many lives are acceptable losses in this “fight”?

After their statements, a pastor prayed for peace in the city. While prayer has its place, it felt like an empty gesture in the face of such a pressing crisis. Leaders seem content with statements, symbolic gestures, and public prayers—but little meaningful action.

The Root of the Problem: Planning or Lack Thereof

How can we solve the problem of violence?

Should we hire more police officers?
Would technology like gunshot detection systems make a difference?
Is it possible to address the systemic causes of violence—mental health, education, poverty—quickly enough to save lives?

The blame game must end. I no longer care whether it’s poor parenting, lack of resources, or societal issues causing this violence. What matters now is finding real solutions that make our streets safer.

Demanding Action From Leaders

I live downtown, close to where shootings have occurred. My neighbor is moving because of the violence. I’ve considered leaving too. But why should I have to sacrifice the convenience of downtown living because of unchecked violence?

Our leaders must move beyond “thoughts and prayers” to tangible, actionable plans. Whether through increased law enforcement, improved technology, or better community engagement, the time for words is over.

Community Solutions Beyond Thoughts and Prayers

Citizens also have a role to play in reclaiming our city. Here are actionable steps we can take:

Attend city council meetings to hold leaders accountable.
Vote for officials who prioritize safety and community well-being.
Donate time or money to local organizations addressing violence.
Form community action groups or neighborhood watches to actively deter crime.

When leaders fail to act, it’s up to citizens to lead the charge.

Take Back the City Now

Kinston cannot wait any longer for its leaders to act. The next tragedy could happen tomorrow. The time to demand change, make plans, and take action is now.

Thoughts and prayers won’t save lives. Leadership, accountability, and community-driven solutions will.

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