I ran across a pic today, sparked my interest. It is below and speaks for itself.
When I was much younger, I hunted some. Mostly, I shot things... trees, cans, targets. I no longer own guns, and for the most part don't need or want to. But, I thought I would tell you my story about guns...
I've told you all about when I was 11, and was raped by one of my neighbors. I don't need to go over that again. In the ensuing period afterward, I recall quite clearly getting my father's gun and putting it to my head. As you can imagine, it didn't go off. I don't recall if I didn't load it, or if I loaded it wrong... I remember pulling the trigger and nothing happening, then putting the thing back where it was and going into my room to stare at the wall for a while.
In time, I was ok. Mostly. I had some fear issues and self esteem issues, still do. I also had anger issues, and those still get me now and again. Perhaps it just isn't something that can be fully put behind a person?
I, of course, had a bb gun when I was a kid. I think my Dad may still have the darn thing stashed somewhere. He's not good at throwing things out. My friend and I got quite good at target shooting, and like most kids, were more creative than wise. We would play war, shooting each other as we ran through the woods with the rule: no shooting in the face. Seemed quite safe then.... right?
In time, I moved up to a .22. Just a plinker rifle, cheap but accurate. I recall coming home one day on the day before rent was due and getting stopped by the neighbor kids. I talked with them for a while, and seeing their mother come from my house with something in a towel had me curious but unconcerned. Well, come to find out, while I was at work my room-mate decided to pack up and leave, on the day before rent was due. Since he was still there, the neighbor decided it was likely best if she removed my gun from the house before I got there. It startled me at the time to realize how that was probably a good idea.
So, I don't own guns anymore. Don't need them, don't want them. But, many people do, want them at least. And, for those who are safe with them, I am mostly accepting of their rights. But, look at my history with guns above. Scary stuff happens, dumb stuff happens, and even accidents happen....
