Interesting and predictable breakdown of opinions along usual PPOT lines. The red-state types believe that the solution to this would be to have someone carrying a loaded gun at every family Christmas party. The "liberals", (me anyways), think that the solution is to choose your mates more carefully. Every time I read about some insane domestic violence incident, and they are frequent in the U.S., I think, "no way on freaking earth was this guy some cool, well-balanced individual who just turned into Scarface after being rejected."
Dollars to donuts he was an insecure, f'ed-up guy with some serious issues but maybe had a decent job and a house and a car. He paid attention to her and needed her, so that was enough for her to marry him. She had been married 3 times already. How people marry, (or even date), some of the people they do baffles me. That's what I think.
If someone showed up at any Christmas, or other family party I've ever been to with a loaded gun to "protect us" they would be thrown out on their ear and never to return. The idea of having a loaded piece on you while you hug your relatives and hold babies and children is almost as whacked-out as psycho Santa. Once again, if anyone had a loaded gun in a house full of children they would be kicked out of the family. My uncle's service weapon was locked away somewhere, I assume. (No one ever asked, it's too odd of a subject to bring up under those circumstances). The retired Police Chief of Mpls. who is my Mom/stepdad's friend most assuredly is not packing in social situations, if ever. I'd be curious to hear from actual active duty LEOs on this board whether they pack to family parties.
We have some people here who are seriously scared of life. My gun stays in my drawer at home, (live alone/no kids), and I just avoid toxic people. If my number comes up out in the world, so be it.
