Picture this: a world where every individual can confidently walk down the street, knowing they have the means to protect themselves from any threat that might emerge. That's the kind of world 'By the Gun' envisions, and it's a vision rooted in simple common sense, personal responsibility, and an understanding of human nature that's become all too rare in today's society. The film 'By the Gun,' released in 2014 and directed by James Mottern, takes place in Boston and follows the life of Nick Tortano, a gangster seeking to climb the ranks of his mob family.
But let's not kid ourselves—this isn't just a movie. It's a metaphor for real life where self-reliance and personal defense with a firearm is something to be respected rather than feared.
Self-Defense is a Right, Not a Privilege. This isn't just a line touted by gun enthusiasts; it's a fundamental right. Everyday Americans deserve the right to defend themselves and their loved ones without hesitation. In a society where safety cannot always be guaranteed by public authorities, the quickest responder to a crisis is you.
Safety Through Strength. Ask yourself this: Would a criminal be more likely to target someone who might be armed, or someone who definitely isn't? The lawful ownership of guns acts as a deterrent to would-be aggressors. When every citizen has the potential to be armed, it forces criminals to second-guess their next move.
Guns Aren't The Problem; People Are. Hollywood loves to paint guns as the villain. The truth is, guns don't pull their own triggers. Responsibility falls on the shoulders of the individual, and that's a reality some people seem to want to ignore. Accountability shouldn’t be a foreign concept; it's a necessity.
History Doesn’t Lie. Historically, governments that imposed strict gun control weren't exactly benevolent. Tyranny and disarmament have a long-standing history of going hand in hand. Take note of past regimes, and you'll quickly see, the only ones benefiting from disarmament are those seeking total control over a defenseless populace.
Economic Sense of the Gun Industry. The gun industry is a significant contributor to the economy. It's not just about weapons manufacturing; it's about jobs, livelihoods, and supporting families. Hindering such an industry not only endangers jobs but the entire economy.
Cultural Heritage Matters. The American frontier spirit lives on in the right to bear arms. This isn't merely a relic from the past; it's a defining feature of the American identity. The freedom to defend oneself is part of the backbone of American culture and spirit.
The Myth of Gun-Free Zones. Gun-free zones are an invitation for trouble. They create areas where law-abiding citizens can't protect themselves, essentially marking them as soft targets for those with malicious intent. Creating safe zones requires smarter strategies, not wishful thinking.
Training Builds Community. Proper gun training isn't just about learning to shoot; it's about coming together as a community and fostering a sense of responsibility and respect for weapons. It's where camaraderie and mutual trust are built—qualities every strong community needs.
Empowerment Through Responsibility. With the right to bear arms comes the need for responsibility. People who own guns legally are some of the most conscientious citizens you'll meet. They understand the weight of maintaining safety with power, and that’s something we can admire.
The American Dream Requires Freedom. A huge part of what makes America unique is the freedom it offers. The right to protect oneself with a gun is intertwined with the right to live freely. You don’t have the latter without the former. If you're stripping away this right, you're chipping away at the essence of liberty.
These points aren't about fantasy or fiction. They're concrete aspects of reality that a lot of people find hard to swallow. Why are we having this conversation? Because the consequences of ignoring these truths are too dire. We must steer away from fantasies painted by some and embrace the hard, immutable truths that shape a robust, securely equipped society. Stand firm and let's live free, 'By the Gun.'