I’ve never been a big fan of guns — at least, not in real life. In movies, they’re exciting, dangerous and (dare I say it) sexy. In terms of media and the ideals guns symbolize (i.e. freedom, protection, power), it’s easy for someone to be a gun enthusiast in theory. America’s love for guns in the media has only strengthened the impression that Americans are aggressive, violent and power-hunger in every aspect of life. As individuals we know this isn’t true.

A gunman opened fire at a Christian university in California Monday before being captured hours later at a shopping center in a nearby city, authorities said. At least seven people were killed and three more sustained injuries in the shooting.