Arms in the hands of the citizens may be used at the individual discretion
for the defense of the country, the overthrow of tyranny, or private defense.
-- John Adams,
First Vice President and Second President of the United States

The decision of whether or not to own a firearm and whether or not to carry concealed is a personal one. Those who obtain CCW licenses and who feel comfortable carrying in public places are taking a stand against violent crime.

People who carry concealed put themselves in the unique position of being able to defend themselves and others if faced with a potentially life-threatening violent criminal action. The decision to use force if necessary to save lives is one of conscious responsibility and forthright courage. It means standing up for what is right rather than forfeiting all power to the criminal. It also means standing up when everyone around you acquiesces.

Anti-gunners frequently suggest that crime victims simply call the police. While police presence often acts as a deterrent to crime, the police cannot be everywhere at all times. To do so would be economically unfeasible and would create a police state. Police officers cannot be held accountable for failing to protect someone. Emergency 9-1-1 calls have been known to ring busy. Even in a an efficient situation where police officers are dispatched and on the scene within five minutes, a crime is typically already in progress by the time the call is made. Emergency 9-1-1 does not prevent crime. A person carrying a concealed firearm in a public place, however, can save lives. Even the most vehemently anti-gun person can benefit when some law-abiding citizens are armed in public.

Many so-called "liberals" want to blame the presence of inanimate objects for causing crime. Or it's society's fault for creating the situation in the first place. Or it's the victim's fault for not calling 9-1-1 or learning karate. Maybe the criminal's parents are to blame.

Gun owners and Second Amendment supporters don't look for someone to blame. They take a stand. When they learn to properly use a firearm, they are taking a stand. When they choose to carry concealed in a public place, knowing that they might have to make a decision to save lives, they are taking a stand. And when they speak up and enlighten others to the truth, they are taking a stand.

The United States was founded by ordinary citizens who decided to take a stand. Like gun ownership, it is an inherent part of our culture.

Jennifer Freeman is Executive Director and co-founder of Liberty Belles, a grass-roots organization dedicated to restoring and preserving the Second Amendment.
http://www.libertybelles.org
jennifer@libertybelles.org