One of the most common arguments from the pro-gun lobby of America is that they need the guns to protect themselves and their families from those who threaten them in their own homes. At this time of year, more than any other, that is especially true. This year, and every year at this time, an terrible racket is perpetrated on innocent householders. Gangs of vicious youths walk the streets, wearing masks which not only conceal their faces, but which are also designed to cause fear and intimidation. These young thugs approach innocent households and intimidate the families living to make a payment, often called a “treat”. Often, the fearful families have no choice but to pay up, in case these young thugs “trick” them in revenge. Sadly the police have no power to prevent this sort of activity. Worse still, sometimes it seems they even openly tolerate it. Surely an American family should be entitled to protect themselves against this sort of racket. This is precisely why so many people feel the need for guns.
But please, let us remember that Halloween is not just about greed and extortion. This is also a very holy time of the year. The word Halloween is a contraction of All Hallows Eve, which means the night before All Saints Day. This is followed by All Souls Day on November 2nd. It is the time when the Great Pumpkin rises out of a sincere pumpkin patch to spread his message of goodwill around the world. At this most wonderful time of the year, it is appropriate that we should show a little tolerance, and even mercy. So please, gun lovers, if you or your family is threatened this year, just pause for a moment, and take the trouble to first fire a warning shot into the air. And if they then try to escape, let them run, and don’t try to bring them down. You know its the right thing to do. After all, it is Halloween.
[sup]Let them eat candy![/sup][/ul]