An admitted true crime reader and viewer (and there are so many newspaper, magazine and television accounts available), the conversation at home has been repeated often: Is there no longer any respect for life? Based on the ever-increasing number of crimes that take lives, the answer apparently is no.

Without any intention of spotlighting any previous or recent incidents, we live in a society — and this is on a nationwide scale — where human life appears disposable in the eyes of some.

Do we not have adequate deterrents in place so that the taking of a life isn’t a consideration? Do you ever wonder if some of the more severe punishments of the past merit a return? Let’s just call this a “thinking out loud” scenario.

It is incredibly alarming that someone may die at the hands of another “for the thrill of it.” Not that there is any — and I can’t emphasize that enough — reason to kill another human being. It’s incomprehensible on so many levels.

Who is to blame? What can we do to prevent the horrific acts we hear of on a near daily basis?

Years ago, a friend who was in law enforcement traveled to an Asian country that doles out some serious punishment for crimes. Where is that line drawn between humane and barbaric?

Most importantly, do we remember the victim(s)?

Yes, this is a different direction as we get ready to welcome a new year. It’s obvious we need to return to civilized values. What do you think?

Etc.

+ There’s only one more thing to say as we prepare to bid adieu to 2011: Happy New Year! If you’re out and about Saturday night, be careful.