GILBERT ARENAS IS THE ONLY ‘MISGUIDED JOKE’ IN THE INCIDENT

Original Writing | 1/6/10 | Andy DeStephano

[d3b1976]

GILBERT ARENAS IS THE ONLY ‘MISGUIDED JOKE’ IN THE INCIDENT

By: Andy DeStephano

After a highly publicized incident involving a firearm, Washington Wizards star Gilbert Arenas released an official statement Monday claiming his actions were part of a ‘Misguided Joke’. Arenas must have been looking in the mirror, because he is the only ‘Misguided Joke’ involved in the incident. His explanation was pathetic and the apology was weak at best.

One of the basic rules of firearms training is treating the weapon as if it were loaded at all times. This simple understanding is practiced by beginners and experts alike. Safety Instructors across the nation must have cringed when they read the statement Arenas and his attorney prepared for investigators. Any mature owner of a firearm respects the power and responsibility that is associated with possessing the weapon. They understand the magnitude of the firearm and why it needs to be handled with care at all times. It is unfortunate that one individual has once again cast an ugly portrait for the millions that behave in a responsible manner. Gilbert Arenas is a prime example of why there are many supporters of firearms legislation and unfair prejudices against people that choose to exercise one of their oldest rights.

The United States Constitution has given the freedom to its citizens to legally bear arms, however there is no such legislation prohibiting citizens with the lack of intelligence from becoming firearm owners. In our great country there are stronger safeguards to prevent one from becoming a Starbucks Barista without significant training than there are for one to own a firearm. I am against legislation prohibiting firearms, but I do encourage any individual who purchases a firearm to enroll in an NRA approved safety course. Arenas clearly lacked the common sense necessary to be in possession of a firearm and how to store it properly when not in use. A safety course would have provided a much needed education.

Gilbert Arenas has certainly earned the number worn upon his jersey. For those who are unfamiliar with Arenas he proudly wears the number 0. Perhaps Arenas is displaying the number of firearms he should be permitted to own or what society can expect of him in terms of making sound decisions.

Andy DeStephano is currently a Professor of Management at Berkeley College, New Jersey and Consultant. Prior to his entry into Political Commentary and Academics he has spent over a decade involved with Intercollegiate Athletics.

[HP8753]

The United States Constitution has given the freedom to its citizens to legally bear arms.

Better take another shot at that one, Andy

[Impy]

The people that are saying ban him from the NBA need to gain some kind of sense of proportion.