family gun issue (long)

[ElGato]

I don't think you can MAKE anyone change their mind about this, rather we should be a good example and hopefully LET them change their mind.

There are places the State won't let me carry, I try not to go to these places, if I must I don't stay longer than necessary and would apply that same rule to a private business or home.

[kw5kw]

I don't think you can MAKE anyone change their mind about this, rather we should be a good example and hopefully LET them change their mind.

+1

[Hickeroar]

Next time you go over why don't you call beforehand and ask what they would prefer you do? Tell them you want the gun on the way over but if need be you'll unload it, keeping the ammo in the car, and store the gun in a safe or something in their house as soon as you get there. That way there's no chance of someone stealing your gun from you car and there's also no loaded gun in their house, which is their wish.

I think it you approached them respectfully about a solution you could find one easily.

[kw5kw]

I'm guessing that (at this time of year) it must have been a baseball game, am I right? Either the Astros or if you drove up to the Metroplex a Rangers game or maybe even a AAA league game.

But, with that said, and the way that I have perceived this thread, that Ms. Pax needs to retreat for a short time. As suggested an apology letter (or phone call) would be appropriate. She needs to be understanding of their views, just as Christians are tolerant of sinners before they're saved.

Gradually, and I mean gradually, introduce the subject of guns over coffee or even a newscast where a successful defense of one's life has been proven. Have a short discussion about the event, and drop it.

Next time you visit, you gradually talk about it again.

This will take time, but if you allow them to make up their own mind about such things, then they will eventually 'See the light' and then you can invite them to go to the range for a session.

Shortly thereafter they'll understand.

Venus... you can catch more flies with honey and sugar than with vinegar!

Now, shall we quit all the bickering, and have civil discussions.


+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

TXI... your words are appreciated, here at least.


Russ

[nitrogen]

Speaking as a former Anti who has seen the light for about 10 years now:

Agreeing with those that say you cannot make someone change their minds. The best way I have to describe the process that needs to take place, is, it's a lot like missionary work. When missionary work is done right, you're exposing people previously ignorant to an idea.

People know plenty of things that just isn't so, and will cling to those ideas, sometimes even in opposition to the facts.

Let me give an example. Remember the McDonald's coffee lawsuit? In many circles, it's given as an example of the need for tort reform. The problem being, honestly, the lawsuit was probably justified. Go look up the details on google, and you'll be suprised about the facts of the case.

The old addage, "you can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink" comes to mind.

If you're going to change someone's mind, you have to encourage doubt about something. You can't just spout off facts from Gunfacts; you've got to encourage someone to WANT to seek those facts out.

[Charles L. Cotton]

Oh for the love of everything nice, how about we all just stop arguing and go back to the actual topic of discussion.

No more replies that involve arguing. thanks. This forum is great but I've seen enough arguments here in the last few weeks than I care to see.

I agree and it stops now! I've tried to handle issues diplomatically, often by PM, but I'm out of patience. No one is above the forum rules, not me not anyone, no matter how much they post. No one gets any latitude based upon their participation either.

Chas.

[Venus Pax]

Okay, folks. I've drafted up a letter, but wanted to run it by everyone before I send it. My objective is not to apologize for carrying, but for doing so in their home without their explicit or implied consent.
Tell me what you think.

Dear sis & bil,

I was recently informed of the fact that I offended you when I entered your house with my handgun. I would like to apologize for this. Had I thought it would bother you, I would have separated the gun from its ammunition and locked one of the two in Mom’s car while in your house overnight.

Although I stand by my decision to carry outside of my home for personal and family protection, I was insensitive to the fact that your views could be different from mine.

I know that I have certain house rules that I like honored, and realize you are no different in your viewing your home as your private sanctuary. Please accept my apology.

Love,
Venus Pax

[seamusTX]

Looks good to me. Not a comma out of place.

- Jim

[kw5kw]

Okay, folks. I've drafted up a letter, but wanted to run it by everyone before I send it. My objective is not to apologize for carrying, but for doing so in their home without their explicit or implied consent.
Tell me what you think.

Dear sis & bil,

I was recently informed of the fact that I offended you when I entered your house with my handgun. I would like to apologize for this. Had I thought it would bother you, I would have separated the gun from its ammunition and locked one of the two in Mom’s car while in your house overnight.

Although I stand by my decision to carry outside of my home for personal and family protection, I was insensitive to the fact that your views could be different from mine.

I know that I have certain house rules that I like honored, and realize you are no different in your viewing your home as your private sanctuary. Please accept my (I would add here the words "Most Humble" ) apology.

Love,
Venus Pax

I really hope that your name isn't really Venus Pax

[Venus Pax]

Thank you. And no, my Mama did not name me Venus Pax. I use my screen names when I post on boards for security.

[longtooth]

Excellent letter young lady.

[kw5kw]

Thank you. And no, my Mama did not name me Venus Pax. I use my screen names when I post on boards for security.

[dws1117]

Excellent letter. It takes some guts. You've been given some terrific advice here. I hope the reply is very positive.

[Lumberjack98]

Letter looks good.

Give us an update after it's delivered.

[rspeir]

Something I don't understand is, if your BIL had a problem with it, why he didn't talk to you instead of involving the rest of the family.