Bearing Arms

It seems appropriate to commence the new year by acknowledging the efforts of those in the National Rifle Assn., which has labored so diligently in behalf of the right of all to bear arms.

After reading (Times, Jan. 2) of the New Year’s Eve merrymakers who “accidentally” critically wounded a 13-year-old boy by firing a “rain shower” of bullets into the air; and after rereading of another celebrant who, in his revelry, not only shot at street lights but also shot and killed a 35-year-old husband and father; and after reading of the man who, offended by music from elsewhere shot and killed the offending party and wounded others, I can only say, “Thank you, NRA.”

Denied the exertions and exhortations of the NRA and its lobbyists and congressional toadies, the celebrants might have been deprived of their fun, and the music hater rendered incapable of standing up for his rights.

True, additional people would have survived to welcome the new year, but hey, it’s the principle that counts.

ILENE BRISKIN

Beverly Hills