Somebody cuts you off in traffic, whispers at the movies, or sneaks in front of you in the cafeteria line.

What can you do?

KILL HIM, OF COURSE!

You shouldnt, but you do just that if youre one of todays urban murderers.

According to a new study, the good news is that homicides are declining across the country. Its a very favorable trend, and something we should be proud of as citizens of this fair land.

The bad news, according to The New York Times, is that in certain cities, like Philadelphia, the murder rate is going up.

Why are the residents of that City of Brotherly Love forgetting this moniker and viciously bumping each other off, with even greater frequency?

To borrow an expression, Its the little things.

Petty annoyances, perceived slights, and everyday misunderstandings are pushing Philadelphians and others to reach for the gun instead of a kinder, gentler remedy.

This doesnt come as a surprise to law enforcers or to students of psychology or interpersonal communications.

When folks dont feel they have constructive channels available to remedy their complaints, they turn to whats expedient, and available.

Too often, its to guns and knives, and whatever blunt objects are nearby.

What ever happened to counting to ten, to let off steam?