JACKSON, MISSISSIPPI — Early Saturday morning, a man was shot attempting to gain access to a woman’s home. While details are scant from Mississippi News Now, the shooting is being investigated as a domestic violence case rather than the traditional home invasion — suggesting that the man had more of a connection to the woman living in the home. The details of the investigation are still underway and the case is expected to head to a grand jury.
Some men are downright dogs. And some use ruthless tools like intimidation, coercion, sexual abuse, and assault as means to keep a woman subject to their will. One of the advents of the more widespread adoption of firearms amongst women is their increased ability to defend against men who would attempt to use violent force against them.
We’ve covered multiple stories detailing both the good and the bad — the cases where we wished the woman had got the gun sooner and others where we’re thankful she did.
Being armed (and knowing how to use it) levels the playing field. A lot of the arguments supporting gun control seem to ignore this fact altogether. Women are often left at an extreme disadvantage when trying to protect themselves and their children from an abusive spouse or boyfriend. Often times, a firearm is the difference between life and death.
Step 1 is getting that guy out of the house. Step 2 is getting a restraining order. And Step 0 is getting a concealed carry permit and attending a training course to get yourself familiarized with the firearm.
Does a firearm guarantee success? No. It’s a tool. And as women are learning, that tool can work for or against them. Why try to get into a fist fight or a knife fight with a man who outweighs you and has no issue jeopardizing your life? Even the playing field — get equipped with the right training, mentality, and tools for the job.
While the fine law enforcement officials in Jackson, Mississippi, sort out the details surrounding this case — one thing is certain: it’s better to be armed and prepared than hope for the best.