Every American has the right to keep and bear arms. But that doesn’t mean that guns are for everyone. Some of you will criticize the writer quoted below because decided she isn’t comfortable with firearms. But give her credit for actually shooting one and trying to make an informed decision.
It’s been a year since I held that Glock in my hand, surprised at the weight of it, unable to press the bullets into the clip. I’m hard pressed to know if I will ever hold one again. I’m certain my one-off shooting will not appease the men in my life, so sitting in my Groupon queue is another range pass.
But I’m not convinced arming myself is the solution. Jameel once told me, “never pull a gun unless you are ready to use it.” I don’t think I’d ever be ready. I’ve stared down too many gun barrels to ever feel comfortable with the idea of needing to turn one on someone else.
For me, there is no way to recognize the possibility of good when it comes to owning a weapon. I can only see the bad, what makes me fearful. And just like my father, until I can control both the weapon and the power, I’ll refrain from trying to harness either of them, willing to master the skill without actually using it.
– Athena Dixon in More Black Women Are Carrying Guns Than Ever Before. But Could I?