Interesting post. I can appreciate the question.
I once walked in on a convo, of a father figure speaking with a younger generation - about “please staying away from any temptation of ever illegally possessing a gun, but that if they were ever interested, go about it the legal way”. He emphasized the legal ramifications of breaking gun laws.
These were extended family of mine, and hearing the consequences while seeing their faces – “hit home”. I politely jumped in and supported the importance of remaining legal and I mentioned the USCCA in a positive light.
Elders can be influential.
I’ve not yet heard someone express gun interest, from someone I thought should not be an “owner”. However, I know a lot of people I would personally prefer they not be.
It’s those people who I don’t proactively promote firearm usage to, in hopes to stave off their purchase.
Those who I trust, I may share and promote firearm information, focusing on safety, education and training; However, I’m still very careful with my privacy, to avoid theft and or avoid backlash (as in my circles, I’m in anti-gunner central).
I’m curious though, what is it about certain persons, where one might think or feel that he/she ought not become an owner?
I noticed in the past, this topic was pretty controversial and the majority of comments promoted guns for all, almost no rules.
Personally, I believe it’s more complex. I’ve met a lot of people in my life and work, even on a daily basis today - from all walks of life, and I get to know many of their backgrounds, history, see their personalities, tempers, behaviors. I think we all experience them when we are out and about.
Have you all ever met or seen someone who you recognized as a potential danger if they were to ever be behind the wheel of a car, if ever they were a parent, or a gun guardian?
Think temper, think behavior.
And then there’s alcohol and substance misuse. Marijuana is legal to use now in many regions.
I’ll never take my ability to own for granted.
But what about that person’s quality of life. If ever we know someone we think should not be a “guardian” of a firearm; What’s going on with them? Looking at the bigger picture, should we offer them help, or kindness? Do they have some of the other basics: love, education, food, shelter, healthcare, self-defense training?
Starting there first, to be more human. Them having those things – it’s harder for them to have an accident or hurt someone with those basics.
Should there be no rules, or does it depend – should there be a spectrum and an organized system? If so, then we need to be a part of that discussion too. Let the rules also reflect our sides, not just one side.
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