Parkland, Florida School Shooting Aftermath

This will be a short one, I think.

I have been communicating with John in recent days about the most recent school shooting (Parkland, Florida).  We have been talking less about the incident itself and more about the aftermath.  Something about the reaction to this one seems different than all of the others.

We try to stay apolitical here on the blog, as we understand that our readers have many interests, life priorities, etc., and no one political party is likely to have a “perfect” platform for each of us.  Nevertheless, there is little doubt that those of us who advocate self-reliance—particularly where self-defense is concerned—are currently experiencing what can only be described as an attack on our lifestyle.  At least it seems that way.

So, I am going to make a suggestion.  Rather than run out and panic buy ANOTHER AR-15 or some other firearms gizmo, take that money and put it toward your preferred gun rights group:   NRA, GOA, SAF, a state or local organization, etc.  If you do not have much money to donate, then give your time.  Testify at the state level if your rights are being threatened (I’ve done so several times in my home state.  It is empowering).  Volunteer to stuff envelopes or make signs or whatever it takes.  Call your senators, congressmen and congresswomen, your state and local legislators (or write to them.  Handwritten letters can more impactful).  Be courteous but sensible.

Make no mistake about the money that is behind this most recent push.  It seems unlikely that a bunch of high school students were able to rent a group of coach buses and get professionally printed signs made up in just a few days’ time.  I am not knocking the emotions some of these students must feel, but there is seemingly some big money behind them as well.  We must do our best to match it.

If you value your right to self-defense and the right to utilize the tools that YOU believe can best help you enjoy that right, then you’re probably going to have to fight for it from here on out.  Fighting for it, in my opinion, does not include buying another firearm.  Put the money and/or your time where it needs to be in order to achieve the results you desire.  I will be putting my money where my mouth is and practicing what I preach.

On a final note, and something I already mentioned:  be courteous.  It’s easy to get into virtual shouting matches on social media with old friends from high school or the like.  It is also easy to come off as a loon to any politicians you may have occasion to speak with.  Be smart and be courteous.  It goes a long way.  I would also recommend you read this article by Greg Ellifritz of Active Response Training.  I think he is probably right that we are not as far apart as we might imagine.

Thanks for reading.  If you have any questions or comments, please post them below or on our Facebook page.