truth wrapped in humor

Ok, I do not care who you are, this is pretty darned funny:

While the humor, snark, and sarcasm were coming fast-and-heavy throughout the entire segment, it did touch one one simple fact – there is unquestionable intolerance against some American citizens due to what amounts to be nothing more than a lifestyle choice. Some law-abiding, adult citizens choose to take active, personal, and direct responsibility for their safety and security, and are often ostracized, demonized, and legislated against due to that choice – a choice that, by and large, affects no one other than themselves, and any criminals intent on victimizing them.

And, honestly, I think it was a good thing that The Daily Show was able to present this blatant intolerance in a humorous light – far from minimizing and marginalizing it, the humorous presentation makes that unwarranted discrimination against those peacefully carrying firearms much more approachable, understandable, and personable. I will not go so far as to say that the depiction of open carriers was entirely positive or fair, but I certainly will thank Paul Helmke for so voluntarily identifying the Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence Ownership as an obviously and actively intolerant organization.

Regarding a few details from the clip, I would point out that open carry of handguns is 100% legal in Tennessee, so long as you have a Department of Safety-issued or -recognized handgun carry permit, concealed weapon license, or equivalent. Also, in regards to the idiotic statement of “I don’t know if that guy is there to protect me or if he’s there to shoot everybody in the store,” as uttered by the unquestionable bigot, Heidi Yewman, the only correct answer is, “Neither.” The statement is a false dichotomy – when I carry a firearm, I am doing so to protect me and mine. My actions may end up protecting you and yours as well, but my first, foremost, and only priority is the safety of my family and myself – it is unfortuate Heidi is unable to wrap her head around that concept, and apply it to her own life. Oh, and finally, that children’s book was mistitled – those appeared to be Smith and Wessons, of some variant or another.

In the end, across the blogosphere and various forums, I am seeing pro-rights activists generally chuckling and laughing at The Daily Show clip, with a few exceptions of course. I wonder if the anti-rights folks have the same sense of humor about being portrayed as intolerant, bigoted hate-group members. I doubt it… mostly because of the significant boulder of truth buried in the comedy.

Tell you what, though, Paul – in exchange for actually having the spine to be honest and proudly fly the flag of intolerance during your interview, if you are ever out my way, I will buy you a cup of coffee. At Starbucks. While I am openly carrying. What do you say?

(Courtesy of Say Uncle and Everyday, No Days Off.)