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Showing Original Post only (View all)So, my 86-year-old Mom phoned today about gun violence. [View all]
She said, "Okay, I need you to tell me why this idea is so crazy, right? I've got an idea I think will make mass shootings less common."
Sez I, "Okay, Mom, shoot. I mean, lay it on me."
"So, I know this sounds weird, right? But I was awake feeling sad about all those people killed and their families, and it just occured to me. Everybody has cars, right? Well, not everybody, but enough so it's almost the same thing."
"Sure, Mom."
"And cars can be real dangerous- people get killed in car accidents a lot, although not as much as they used to when I was a lot younger. Although with more people, the numbers look bigger, but the percentages are down, right?"
"Lemme stop ya here, Mom. I think what you're about to say is that anyone who buys a gun, or at least an automatic-type with the ability to shoot a whole lotta bullets really fast without reloading, they should have to pass a safety test, and get a license to use that gun, and then get a license for the gun itself, and they should have to have insurance, and renew their license regularly, and take ongoing safety tests as needed. Amirite? That what you're thinkin'?"
She's clearly a little miffed that I stole her thunder, but, "Well, yes. Don't you think it's a good idea? Why wouldn't it work?"
"Well, I won't tell you that, because I think it actually WOULD reduce the number of mass shootings. But I CAN tell you why it'll never happen."
"Okay, why's that?"
"Simple. The U.S. Constitution and Bill of Rights don't guarantee any right to keep and bear cars."
Long, long silence.
"Mom? You still there?"
"THAT is just STUPID."
I can't say I disagree, actually.
wearily,
Bright