When the calendar rolled over from 2011 to 2012 Sunday morning, it seems Selma’s problems with gun crimes followed suit.

Even before the clock struck midnight gunshots could be heard in every part of town. This holiday tradition — which makes no sense at all — did not lead to any injuries this time. But, as long as bullets are flying in the air, it’s only a matter of time before someone loses a life.

On the heels of these shots of celebration, Dallas County also recorded its first murder, and Selma had its first shooting Tuesday.

It’s a shame. It’s a shame that Selma is becoming better known for it’s current state than its history. The only gunshots this city should be famous for are those fired during the Battle of Selma in the 1860s.

Selma is best known worldwide for those who chose not to use violence to solve their problems in the 1960s.

The people who marched across the Edmund Pettus Bridge and were viciously attacked could have taken up arms at any time.

But, they were smart enough to know that peaceful resistance would get them much further.

They suffered tremendously to keep this idea alive, and, in the end, accomplished their goals. Some people seem to think a gun in the hand gives them a sense of power and credibility. In reality, it only confirms their status as the neighborhood coward, not the neighborhood bully.

As long as this behavior continues, the unemployment rate will continue to rise, the population will continue to fall and a proud city will continue its descent. Hopefully, 2012 will be the year things begin to change, but judging by the first week, it’s going to be a long process.