George Washington contemporaneously recorded his position on the 2nd Amendment: "A free people ought not only be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government."

Washington placed NO limit on weapons even though a machine gun was invented 70 years earlier in France. Privateers (privately owned ships) had cannon aboard and they were not banned in the Constitution. Guns are inanimate objects and will not operate without a person to load it and pull the trigger. It is the person and their state of mind that needs to be considered, especially BEFORE an act of violence takes place.

The people should place more attention on raising children to respect and love their neighbors, to not covet neighbors' property, and to find ways to reach out in peace to each and everyone, including those who have different opinions, to create a community that nurtures good neighborliness and friendships. Put away the cell phones and talk in person with your family, friends, and visitors to give them a sense they are valued and not alone.