But, unfortunately, without being able to read the murderer's mind, there is often not much that can be done. Short of erecting maximum security schools, it is difficult to stop a madman determined to kill. That is a horrifying thought, but sadly it is true. These are senseless acts of cruelty that are difficult to prevent.

I am often amazed that there are not more frequent terrorist attacks in the United States considering the great freedom we enjoy. There is little that could stop a madman with a weapon (gun, bomb, or whatever it may be) intent upon mass murder. We enjoy being able to go shopping and to the movies and to eat in restaurants without being stopped and searched by security. Most Americans don’t want metal detectors in every school and church and other public gathering place -- we already have to deal with them at all the airports and court buildings. But we do want to feel safe.

In an episode of the television drama “Crossing Jordan” this week, one of the main characters was detained by the Homeland Security Agency for being a suspected terrorist. The HSA was portrayed as scary and ruthless, threatening the character with Abu Ghraib style treatment. It was an over-the-top, ham-handed portrayal, but no doubt captured the concerns of some. Even the loss of some rights and civil liberties extended to suspected terrorists is seen as a frightening and dangerous thing by many – even to some of those who see that loss as necessary to prevent future terrorist attacks.

The balance between freedom and security is often a difficult one to make and at times our desire to live in a free society comes with a high price. One of the things that makes our way of life so desirable, is also what makes us, at times, very vulnerable. Such is the case with anything worthwhile in life though.