I mention this group of grandparents, however, because they are not typical. They don't have leadership created out of gun violence. They don't tiptoe down their sidewalks afraid of stepping out the door. They aren't saying goodbye at the bus stop and hoping their child comes back each day.

The story is a stark reminder of how willing we are to believe what people say instead of believing the facts in front of us. Often we don't want to rock the boat or challenge someone. When that attitude prevails, people who see something choose not to say something. And, tragedy follows.

You may not be a podcast listener but I'm about to change your mind and send you running for your headphones. We recently released an enthralling podcast episode with school vice principal, Heather, who shared how she and others averted a school shooting in Utah.

We are all struggling to combat firearms violence but there is little consensus on what is the magic mix of law and policy. Now, recently released research validates that collective changes in law and policy can result in an aggregate reduction in gun violence. But only if the changes remain in place.

If you don’t have an emergency plan for a shooting in public, at a school, or in your business, check websites and ask those in charge. The Department of Homeland Security and the Federal Bureau of Investigation both have useful films and training tips in Run, Hide, Fight, the federal directive to help you keep safe.

Mr. King’s frustration with gun violence and his feeling of helplessness for our country are not unique, but they are born more from exhaustion than reality. I reject his view that “there is no solution to the gun problem.”