My husband is a hunter, and a gun aficionado. I had never been around guns until we met. I thought hunters were terrible people. I didn't believe their "conservation" talk; I knew that if men hadn't killed off all the predators, there would be no need for hunters to kill deer, antelope, goats and so on. So it was our fault, and we should re-introduce the natural predators and let nature take care of itself.
Jess has turned my world upside down. At first, I was skeptical, just waiting to see the evil monster inside him show its face. He liked to kill wild things, after all. I judged him harshly, and kept my distance in the face of his obvious interest. I'd been happily celibate for thirteen years, and saw no need for a man in my life.
Jesse is a redneck. Which means different things to different people. but for Jess it means country living and country music, horses, cowboy boots, and being very respectful toward women. I wasn't used to that! I've been a staunch feminist most of my life, and tended to run with others who were likeminded. His gentleness and uncomplicated ways of being won me over. Good warm feelings began to grow in me, feelings about him. I learned to love him, and accepted him as he was.
Since then, I have realized that man is a part of nature, too. And a predator as well - the top predator. When Jesse hums quietly to himself as he fiddles with his guns, I just smile. It's a hobby for him. He really likes guns, likes to take them apart and try to make them better. He has owned assault rifles, too, but he wouldn't buy a magazine clip that holds more than five rounds. He is not violent in the least. Guns are not a symptom of mental illness for Jesse. Not a sign of an unbalanced mind. And he hunts to put meat in our freezer, never for trophies.
I understand that not all gun owners are like Jesse. Background checks before you buy a gun are woefully inadequate. Practically useless in many instances - especially in the area of mental health. I don't have any answers; I just wanted to put a different perspective out there.
As for me? - I now own a gun of my own, a small handgun. Jesse has taught me how to use it, and I'm not a bad shot, either!
___________
This is my first diary, after being on kos for a year. Thanks for reading!