I left my Glock 27 loaded for 3 years straight and a remarkable thing happened

Every single day for the past 1,095 days (3 years), I’ve left my Glock 27 loaded. Each and every day, it’s on my side 16 hours out of 24. It’s in reach the other eight.

It’s been with me for every meal at home and out. It goes to the bathroom with me. It sits comfortably on my hip while driving. It’s there in the movie theater. When I’m at the gas station pumping gas or in the grocery store, I have it on me. If I’m working on my car in the garage, it’s within arms reach. When I’m out with friends, it comes along for the ride. When I go to a meeting, it quietly idles. It’s there when I go to the bank. If I’m sitting at home watching TV, guess what…it’s with me.

It’s there when I’m frustrated and sad. It’s in reach even when I’m angry or upset.

I’ve never shot anyone. I’ve never gone on a rampage, and I’ve never used it for intimidation. I’ve never had to draw it in self-defense.

A remarkable thing has happened; even though it’s with me fully loaded and ready at all times, it’s never been used for evil.

I am a law-abiding citizen, and my gun is a tool that I carry in case the unthinkable happens. It’s a part of my attire just as much as my wallet is.

A remarkable thing has happened; I’ve never experienced a negligent discharge.

I am a safe, responsible and dedicated gun owner.

Anytime we watch the news or read an article that describes a senseless act of gun violence, chances are that person was not someone like me.

Chances are, that person is not a legal gun owner. The vast majority of gun owners in America, some 99%, will never commit a crime with any of their firearms.

Chances are, they might just be at the wrong place at the right time to save innocent lives. We aren’t vigilantes, and we aren’t police officers. We don’t pretend to be.

What we are is accepting of reality and the harshness that can come with it.

What we are is prepared.