Are we really that surprised?

America is having an "acute stress response." We were so stunned at the reports of alleged child rape by ex-Penn State coach Jerry Sandusky that some news anchors were rendered speechless, shaking their heads and staring into cameras. Nauseated parents dove for the remote before their children were exposed to the news reports. Editors woke up in the night and composed scathing articles expressing outrage.

With all the fight, flight, or freeze going on, I have to wonder: Why are we so surprised? We are a society obsessed with sex. Just last Friday, The Denver Post carried at least six stories related to sex and sexual crimes:

We must think sex is important because we start teaching our young about it in grade school. In middle school we give kids details so they can start practicing. In high school we help them deal with their unplanned pregnancies and diseases. If they need more education on the topic, they can now major in LGBT studies at San Diego State University (heterosexual studies not available).

In addition, our society promotes sexual confusion and degradation with film, TV, and pornography. With the internet, it has never been easier to view and participate in such behavior. And yet we are shocked when people do such things in real life?

The truth is, deep down we know this intimate act should be private and beautiful-and within boundaries. It's not about conservative vs. liberal. It's about wisdom vs. foolishness. Fire in my fireplace is a beautiful thing. Fire in my living room is a dangerous threat.