HarrySchell said:
do what they have to do to make the best of their situation...
And frankly, that's something that the average TFL member has not had to do. Look at the demographics.
Chances are the average member here is somewhere between 25 and 45 years of age. They probably have some disposable income to even afford the most basic firearms, ammunition or reloading supplies. There is a great probability that the average member here is a hunter, or a wilderness camper--and "outdoors" kind of a guy. They also are fiercely independent and capable, and seldom the last guy picked in softball.
And because they live their lives in this manner they have no real concept of exclusion or derision. Aboutthe worst they have experienced is being called a "redneck" by upper class society.
So let's remember when some new piece of legislation or compulsory requirement takes place--even something as simple as an "earn a buck" program. As they begin to realize they no longer call the shots,
their reaction is anger.
Now, imagine a world where you live and support yourself, behave in a lucid manner, have an IQ in at least the top 20% of the population and desire the same freedoms and goals as any other neighbor.
Oh, did I forget something? Yes, I forgot to add that in every move you make, every judgement or belief you proffer, every individualistic choice any other citizen gets,
your behavior will always be questioned. Do something avant guarde and they will accuse you of "being off your meds." Show justifiable indignation and you've "gone postal." Demand your share of the same enumerated rights as the drunken, toothless, wife-beating townie passed out next to you and you'll find restrictions adopted for "your own good."
Harry, you're probably a good person. Obviously you're one of the good guys or you wouldn't even bother coming here. And I don't mind you taking an alternative position to mine.
Having said that, unless you are bipolar, you haven't a clue what goes on in my life. The sneers, the knowing glances, the abject fear.
I once got out of a fight simply because I told the guy I was bipolar. I used his fear against him.
Now, back to the debate. This is the way most people take complicated situations and boil them down into simplistic actions. They fish around for a stereotype, and make a snap decision. I do not know if Mr. Farina is guilty, innocent, forgetful, bipolar, on assignment, set up to be framed, smug, hostile, or just profiled due to his celebrity.
But I do know how "snap decisions" feel when made by self-appointed watchdogs of society. Especially when they are wrong in most cases.