It
is no surprise that recent events have put a greater strain on our rights with
particular focus on the second amendment. I am actually surprised that the
tragedy in Turkey hasn’t filter back into the debate more than the occasional
mention. Thus far, the right decisions have been made overall but this debate
and the attempted infringement is by no means concluded. It is because of this
simple fact that we have continued to be vocal about our rights and, when able,
we have contributed to this fight in a variety of different ways.
It
really comes down to the individual. Some have more flexibility in their
schedule than others and can be in attendance at events, campaign, and
volunteer their time to one or more groups. I have had many opportunities to do
this but, as of yet, I have been unable to find any free moments that could be
dedicated to this endeavor. Maybe in the future but I am really not holding my
breath on this one.
Others
apply their efforts in the few minutes stolen from each day to write blogs,
letters, article, and other means of communication, dissemination, and advocacy
for our rights. This is where my efforts are applied because while there is no
way that I am able to set aside hours or days to dedicate to a particular
endeavor, I can find the minutes scattered throughout my day between various
projects and assignments to write letters, emails, articles, and blog posts
such as this. A lot can be done with this found time and this defense of our
freedom needs every minute that each of us can spare.
And,
of course, there is the financial means of support of which we are all very
familiar. This is especially true now as the campaign calls have increased over
the last couple of months driven by recent events and the natural progression
of the campaign season. This is an area where I do what I can. Lately, I have
been looking more at transitioning from annual to life memberships and, in
other situations, upgrading my life membership. Thankfully, the extended
payment options for most of the major second amendment organizations is very
reasonable and financially possible for most members.
There
isn’t a cut and dry answer that one can give when asked “how can I contribute
or make a difference?” What works for me may not work for you and vice versa. In
the end, we all have to figure out how we can support our second amendment rights
and we all must be willing to stand our ground. That is how one goes from contributing
to making a difference.
