I hope you wouldn’t all immediately condemn me for carrying, although letting you see my (permitted) weapon would certainly have been rude of me. But additional details might help me explain whether or not I’d have it along in the first place.
Where is this “party” or social gathering? Your home, yes, but where is that in relation to mine? Nearby, or some considerable distance? Will I drive through any depressed areas along the way? Must I park on the street, perhaps at some remove? Is it broad daylight, or nighttime? Will I, because of distance or personal schedule, be coming directly from my home, or might I have other stops or errands along the way or after I leave? Am I traveling alone, or in company with other adults, or with my elderly mother?
Back in a former life, in a city that was none too safe, I carried a pistol frequently. I had a permit for it. I was careful that it remain concealed as required. I did not drink alcohol when I carried it. And I sometimes had it along on social occasions.
Your home and your friends are probably quite safe, and I’m honored to be among them. But your street or your neighborhood might not be so safe. Parking in the dark at curbside a couple of blocks away might be reason enough for me to bring my weapon. I also might have had it along if I was coming from some other place where I felt it appropriate (delivering a large cash deposit to my bank) and did not have time or opportunity to take it home first. And I might not want to leave it in the car where it could be stolen.
There could be a host of reasons, aside from malice or stupidity, that would account for my having my weapon at your party. Knowing that many people are uncomfortable around guns, I would be most careful that you not find out about mine. But I still might have it along. I hope I’d still be invited-- or invited back.