I was waiting for someone else to post about this tragedy but I it appears we are trying to wrap words around it all.
I want to offer my condolences to the families of all those shot.
There are a few things I would like to say....remember, these are MY thoughts,you can disagree, they aren't facts...
First,the murderer appears to be extremely mentally ill. This comes way before (and really, in place of) any political views he holds.
second, uninformed people will say "Anybody can run around with a gun in Arizona." This isn't accurate. While you don't need a special permit or training to carry, you still need to pass a NICS (sp) check to buy one.
Third, this was a group that is by and large anti-gun. There wasn't anyone pulling out THEIR concealed gun and returning fire. I suspect most groups of Arizonans numbering over a hundred, would have a few CCWers around. It's a shame there wasn't one handy.
Fourth, the Sheriff was quick to hold a press conference...pointing fingers
http://thechollajumps.wordpress.com/ Fifth, I suspect everyone's finger will be pointing in a direction away from themselves.
I know I need to be aware that some people SHOULDN'T have guns and I need to be a good citizen. I hope I have the courage, when someone I know who owns a gun and seems "on the edge," to follow a prudent path.