Guns don't shoot people, people shoot people

The shooting in Boulder, Colorado, was tragic and sad.

How our government and many people respond to these shootings is also tragic and sad. From so many come cries for, "We need more gun control," "more laws," and, "get rid of the Second Amendment."

These people who commit these acts of violence are mentally ill and need help. Are we helping these people? No. People I know in the medical field say there are not enough facilities to care for mentally ill people. We need to help these people, so others do not have to suffer the consequences.

It is an old cliche but true: "Guns do not shoot people, people shoot people." Do you think when a gun owner picks up his or her gun, the gun thinks, "Oh boy, I'm going to go and shoot people?"

It's like a car. You get into it, start the engine, and drive it where you want to go. The driver is in control. The vehicle is not in control. It does not take over and run over people or smash into other cars.

Of my friends and family, 99% own guns and carry. They are responsible people who have the right to own and carry a gun. They exercise their right given to them by our constitution. It is their right, our right, to bear arms.

If I'm wrong, please, please explain how guns are responsible for shootings, not the people who have done the shooting.

DARLENE YOUNG

Bonners Ferry