On Aug 4, a Pennsylvania man walked into a gym aerobics class and opened fire, killing three women and wounding nine before turning the gun on himself.

George Sodini, 48, brought four handguns into the LA Fitness gym outside Pittsburgh and used three of them, firing at least 36 times around 8 p.m. Tuesday.

An online diary, as well as notes at the scene and at his home, have led police to believe he was targeting women in general. For the news report, click here.

Columnist Bob Herbert called this a time when “rape, murder and humiliation of females is not only a staple of the news, but an important cornerstone of the nation’s entertainment.” For his piece, click here.

I would not go so far as to say that. But I would certainly like to urge men and women alike to remember that it does not have to always be about: “It’s every man for himself”, “An eye for an eye” and “fighting” for what you want and deserve.

Even as acts of violence and extremities seem to increase throughout the world, let us not lose sight that we have a choice on how we respond. It is ok not to be able to win every time. It is alright to be the wronged.

“The wrongdoer is more unfortunate than the man wronged.” – Democritus

Have a bit of patience. Kindness. Forgiveness. Let go.