Me And A Gun

[SFA437]

....... great credit to J-C and the mods who step in if any of us get out of line.

I resemble that remark

This is one subject that will never be settled. It's emotional for a lot of people rather than rational, especially those who have never carried one. There are a few here who have seen firsthand the damage one can do to another, whether wielded for the good of mankind or for it's destruction.

Only the dead have seen the end of war is as valid today as it was 3000 years ago. As long as man walks the planet, war shall exist. From schoolyard bullies to junkies to nation states; someone will always want what someone else has and will possess the will to attempt to take it by force. No matter if the reason is personal, financial or religiously driven- the pattern shall continue for as long as I live and I imagine well past my grandchildren's lives.

War is not about glory, it is not about honor, it is about getting through it and keeping your mates alive on either side of you. When you are on the two way range, concepts like nationalism, patriotism and glory do not even pass through your mind. What you are thinking about is removing the threat so you and your mates can go home.

Amongst us, the viewpoints differ. I obviously favor having a firearm handy and educating my children on what they can do and the consequences of misuse. I enjoy the mechanics of them and in the case of truly fine weapons (I have a Holland & Holland 500 Nitro Express and a few Merkel drillings) I appreciate the artistry in wood and metal.

Others favor not having one or allowing their children access under any circumstances.

Both viewpoints are equally valid, however I view it as a deeply personal choice akin to abortion, religious choice or sexual preference. I would never deign to tell someone what to do within their homes, what God to pray to (if any) or with their bodies/lives. Quite simply I find that to be the height of arrogance.

I respect Posh for having the gumption to post such a contentious topic. If nothing else it has forced us to think, to examine our beliefs and have a rousing debate at the same time.