Our country is at an important crossroads in our debate over the future of gun control. With a startling increase of mass murders by deranged assailants, we must make common sense decisions to help curb this pattern of violence. I agree with the right to bear arms for sport and self defense, but I think we've gone too far in allowing private citizens to own military assault weapons and oversized magazines holding 30 or more rounds. Gun rights advocates need to remember that although they may have the right to own firearms, the public also has the right to reasonable safety and protection from gun violence. 

 Let's get together and enact legislation that can help curb the mass production and distribution of assault weapons and large magazines. The facts are clear; we're less safe with the current laws which promote gun anarchy over the safety of innocent civilians. It's time to stand up to the extremist members of the NRA who seem to care very little about anything else besides their firearms.