Don't we have an obligation as a society to look at ways to curb gun violence?

I expect he means that they were intelligent, educated, thoughtful men who put a lot of time, effort and care into crafting the foundations of our system of government. This is in contrast to people who wish to make sweeping and immediate changes while in the throes of heightened emotions. You can decide for yourself how you compare with regards to intelligence, education, and thoughtfulness.