Cohousing-L Mailing List: Re: Gun ownership

[Sharon Villines (sharon]

On Apr 27, 2007, at 10:41 AM, Alexander Robin A wrote:

> The issue is more complex that might first appear because there are  
> at least three factors involved, each with many possibilities. The  
> first is why the gun is owned and the second is how the gun is  
> handled and stored. Assuming no criminal intent, someone might own  
> a gun for a) self-defense, b) hunting, c) target shooting and  
> competition, and d) decoration (as in a mounted antique). There may  
> be others I've missed.

My son is a police officer and carries a gun at all times. He once  
did undercover work and it was important that he have a gun for self- 
protection in case he was recognized by a drug dealer he had busted.

One of the issues with guns and professionals who 'carry' is that it  
is psychology of being. If you have a job that requires you to carry  
a gun, you need to be in that head 24/7. You can't think in terms now  
I have a gun and now I don't. It's a discipline.

Not sure that makes sense but it is a big issue. I would be  
uncomfortable if my son had to take his gun off to go into the common  
house or stay in the guest room. He wears it where no one would know  
he has it, unless they are used to officers, so no one knows. It's  
odd to hug your son and feel a gun, but you get used to it.

Sharon
----
Sharon Villines in Washington DC
Where all roads lead to Casablanca