Respect emotions in gun debate

Commentaries by Peter Rusthoven as well as others in Forefront [Jan. 7] do not treat two sides of fear.

I fear guns, much as I fear pit bulls. Being near a gun prompts a pervasive anxiety inside me. This fear is especially intense if someone asks me to hold a weapon. Whether rational or not, this is my temperament.

In contrast, I get the impression that others feel warm and comfortable while holding, shooting or storing firearms. Some feel more comfortable walking, sailing or even retiring to sleep with a gun in hand or easily accessible.

These contrasting feelings are not left or right, constitutional or unconstitutional. They are an emotional reality. Until both sides can respect the feelings of the other, the debate will continue without resolution.

____________
John Guy