“When I had the opportunity to travel to Hong Kong, Singapore, and later Beijing, China, one common theme stood out—respect for honor. These societies placed a strong emphasis on upholding honor, although not without their flaws. There, individuals who brought dishonor to their positions sometimes felt compelled to take their own lives in an attempt to atone.

Comparatively, it’s disheartening to witness how in America, we often seem to have a lax attitude towards certain types of crime, particularly when it involves theft under a certain threshold. This leniency can be perplexing. Some believe that being soft on crime will somehow make it disappear, a notion that’s questionable.

During my time in Beijing, I observed a different approach to crime. Every Friday, planes would arrive from various regions of China, bringing with them convicted drug dealers and violent criminals who faced execution by firing squad. Surprisingly, I felt safer walking in some of the poorest areas of the city at any hour. This is in stark contrast to places like Jackson, Memphis, or New Orleans, where crime can be more prevalent.

It’s worth considering a balanced approach. While I don’t advocate for mass executions, there should be stringent consequences for those who commit heinous crimes. Prioritizing the safety of innocent lives is essential. Perhaps we need to reevaluate our criminal justice system and explore ways to deter violent offenders without resorting to extreme measures.”