The issue of gun violence in America has been a significant topic of discussion in the modern political landscape since the mid-1960s. Regulations are proposed, retracted, and attempted again through various channels. Most recently, Surgeon General Vivek Murthy declared gun violence a public health crisis. In doing so, he used his ‘medical expertise’ to recommend measures strikingly similar to leftist proposals for gun control. Using public health as a political maneuver has American gun owners asking, “What now?”
As individual liberties are incrementally stripped away, one can only hope that future generations will not accept these restrictions as normal or simply “the way it’s always been.” Unfortunately, without intervention, they will. Similar to immunizations, this ‘health emergency’ would be best addressed through early intervention. We owe it to our children to ensure they are prepared to engage with the world’s complexities, especially in the fight for their sovereignty.
It is no secret that perceptions surrounding firearms have shifted significantly in a short period of time. In a recent Washington Post article, parents on the left, seeking to extend their influence, are focusing on restricting the use of toy guns to solve the problem. I pray for these children. There is a notion that by sheltering children from reality, they can make it not exist for them. However, shielding children prevents them from understanding the seriousness of gun safety and respecting firearms as tools. Why stifle their creativity? I suggest taking an alternative path.
Let kids explore. Let them mimic cowboys and indians, cops and robbers, or play Army. Let them build and process their understanding of the world. Guide them to learn that good guys generally prevail. Firearms are part of our history. Generations, including our own, have engaged in imaginative play involving guns and should continue to do so.
This type of play isn’t about violence but rather about exploring roles, power dynamics, and conflict solutions. It provides an opportunity to learn proper respect for firearms and their use. Through this play, children develop a natural reverence for the true heroes of our country, idolizing police officers, military personnel, and other historical figures who wielded firearms. These are also lessons that woke American adults should learn as well. It is part of our cultural fabric. Owning firearms is who we are.
There is no shortage of ‘back in my day’ stories, but there is truth to them. Firearms used to hang in the window racks of nearly every pickup truck in rural America. Recruiting posters proudly displayed soldiers holding the tools of freedom in their hands. Westerns, starring cowboys brandishing revolvers, were among the most popular genres. Gun safety was taught in public schools. This culture has since been lost to weak individuals perpetuating politicians’ desire for complete control. Woke culture is prevailing.
With all the anti-gun propaganda carelessly spread by the media, it’s no wonder people are afraid. According to the nightly news, guns are the tools of murder and mayhem. The criminal who wields the gun is rarely even discussed, unless their demographics fit the narrative. It’s always the gun’s fault—they kill people. Without exposure and education, adults are afraid, and in turn spoon-feed their perspectives to the kids. People fear what they don’t understand.
Quit scaring American children into obedient compliance. It is through informed education, responsible parenting, and a respect for our past that we can equip future generations to navigate these complex issues. We must strive to foster a culture where children can explore, understand, and respect firearms, rather than fear them. The legacy we leave should be one of empowerment, not restriction. Guide your children to ensure that they grow up in a world where freedom and safety coexist.
This new public health crisis should gain zero traction in stripping our rights. There are an estimated 83 million legal gun owners in America. When faced with personal or societal threats to our safety and security, we will be thankful to have them. So, thank you, Dr. Murthy, but no thank you. Wokeism and modern ignorance are the real public health crises.
References:
- Schaeffer, Katherine. “Key Facts about Americans and Guns.” Pew Research Center, September 13, 2023. https://www.pewresearch.org/short-reads/2023/09/13/key-facts-about-americans-and-guns/.
Images:
- https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Two_little_boys_%22playing_Indian%22_(10775043703).jpg
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