I certainly don't see anything "cavalier" about carrying a concealed firearm.
A firearm is a tool. Like a fire extinquisher or a defibrillator, if the tool is present when needed and there is a person trained sufficiently in its use, it can save innocent lives that would otherwise be lost.
Nobody that I know of purchases a fire extinquisher because they want to have a fire or because they enjoy fighting fires. Instead, they are driven by the risk of not having the extinguisher available when it would be the best tool. A stove-top grease fire can be quenched in seconds rather than allowing it to consume a major part of one's home while waiting for the fire department to respond.
Some reports of this incident include a description of one man begging other armed people, who are described as taking no action, to let him have their gun. The point is that even if you never have the intention of firing the gun, other innocent people can take advantage of the availability of the tool.
If I lived in a "shall issue" state I would encourage my wife to carry in her purse, with the expectation that I would be the one to use that gun, time permitting. It's just a tool. Having it does not obligate one to take any particular action with it. Not having it DOES obligate one to find some other solution to a potential problem.
Your points are well taken. And, many FReepers here witnessed my being instructed in the proper way on firearm usage back on April 19, earlier this year. I’m just not accustomed to the kick from a glock and I may not get to be. And if I can’t then I won’t be able get the CCL, unless I try a Bersa 380.