It is now a week after the horrific bombing at the Ariana Grande concert in Manchester. My heart still grieves for the innocent victims, many just children. No one should die going to a concert. A concert is a celebration of music and a gathering of music lovers. This celebration was turned into a funeral by a coward who blew up himself and 22 innocent humans. As in every other terrorist attack, the politicians sent out statements praying for the victims. That is fine, but solutions are needed or this will continue. It reminds me of gun violence in the U.S.. After each mass shooting, politicians say the usual, "pray for the victims" and then go back and do nothing.
Morrissey was celebrating his birthday in Manchester on the evening of the bombing. He issued a statement on facebook eviscerating the politicians and The Queen. He was angry and upset at this tragedy in his hometown. This statement has set off a civil war in Morrissey world. Some fans say they are no longer fans. Many internet brawls between Moz fans. The press has had a field day and there are musical artists denouncing him. The cries of "Morrissey is a racist" have been bandied about by the usual suspects. Anyone who thinks Morrissey's statement on the bombing was racist is a fool.
This is a free society and Morrissey has every right to say what he wants. His point of view may not be popular but he has the guts to say what he feels. So many vacuous entertainers have the brains of a wooden stump. They say what they are told. One of the reasons I have always loved and respected Morrissey has been integrity to say what is on his mind and say it intelligently. I may not always agree with Our Moz but I always want to hear or read his take on important matters.
I find internet arguments boring and a waste of time. What is the point of name calling and endless back and forth with people you don't know. I could care less. I am not the sharpest tool in the shed. I do know this. What is needed amongst our leaders are solutions or this cycle of violence will continue eternally.
My message to Morrissey is: Continue to speak up and say what is on your mind. Intelligent people can read a well written piece and agree or possibly disagree but not put down the writer for their opinion. Your voice is needed. The world is a terribly screwed up place. One of the few delights is having Our Moz here to shake things up. And as always: "To Me You Are A Work Of Art".
