Be the sheepdog.

In the Crosshairs
Mike Piccione, Editor

Hey Gunners,

The Arizona tragedy illustrates there is so much wrong with the human condition. People can use objects to harm others. Ever since man realized he could take the life of another man we have been killing each other for benefit or revenge. Frequently we justify these actions on a disagreement of another's belief system.

What is so sad now is that people are using this tragic shooting as an opportunity to raise funds to help their political prospects or fill their organizational coffers. Yes, guns kill. That is what they are designed to do. Many are specifically designed to kill people. Murder existed long before guns were made and it exists in places where guns are outlawed. Guns take lives and guns save lives.

Someday there may be a world that doesn't need guns. Someday there may be a world where you don't need to protect yourself from someone that intends you harm. Until the human condition allows us to live in peace, we are dependent upon the sheepdog.

Be the sheepdog. Protect those that can't protect themselves. To those that want to harm others either for profit or for philosophy-to the best of our ability we won't let you. To those that would disarm the sheepdog, remember the wolves are out there and they will find you. You can't negotiate with them. You can only die. Life is precious; never deny anyone the opportunity to ensure their self preservation or the protection of the innocent.

Live better tomorrow than you did today,

Mike Piccione
Editor, Guns & Patriots

This reminds me of a recent article I read regarding proper herd management for sheep. The author talked about having two different types of dogs to help him with the sheep. One was a Border Collie and it helped him move the sheep around the pastures. The other was a pair of Maremma Sheepdogs. The Maremma is a white dog with a black nose and blends in well with the herd- looking very much like the sheep it protects. According to the author, "The dogs live with the herd and stay with the herd. They don't respond to commands and they distrust strangers. They think and act like sheep except that if they feel that you're threatening the flock, they'll tear your throat out. No, really."