Gun talk

Editor,
In response to Michael Carley’s column, there has been talk over firearms since day one of this country.

Sure, we can talk, but first you need to be schooled in US history and what the Constitution is and is not. You and your ilk perpetually have this erroneous idea that the Constitution is some sort of living document subject to current events and politics.

The Constitution is a set of limits on government, not the other way around. The framers knew that the only way to guarantee this is to fight for it. That means we citizens need to have the tools to protect our inalienable rights. Yes, that means to be armed. This amendment is only second to the First Amendment. Coincidence? The framers knew that the only way to guarantee the First Amendment was with the Second.

In addition, the Constitution applies to all citizens individually. The Second Amendment has always applied to individuals.

You want someone to explain to you a few things about guns? No problem. You ask why does anyone need a military assault style weapon and magazines that hold more than 10 rounds? I know that liberal types will have a hard time understanding this, but many of us have grown cynical, weary and afraid of our ever-encroaching government. To the point that many of us feel the need to arm ourselves for peace of mind, hoping we will never have to use them.

As for databases, again the same thing. We believe the only reason for this database is so the government will know who owns firearms so when they ever decide to declare some “national emergency,” they will know where to go confiscate the weapons.

As for the NRA and other pro-gun groups wanting to arm more people with the idea that we will all be safer, let us look at some facts. The deadliest places with the most gun violence are those places where gun restrictions are most severe.

I am glad you did mention some of the problems with society that do directly contribute to gun violence, but you should also include an ever-increasing fatherless society and the cheapening of human life.

Dan Hogan
Porterville