Originally Posted by The Reaper
I think the odds are low for such an occurrence, but the potential cost of such an incident is high. Tempers are running short, and expectations are mounting. Rumors of voter fraud are rampant and growing. The logical progression is for trouble to start in the larger cities and spread to the smaller ones, but as Ferguson proved, that is not always the case. Anywhere you have large groups of college students, anarchists, socialists, the unemployed, the poor, minorities, the disenfranchised, the hopeless, etc., you can easily use a few agitators to create a problem. Did you watch the Arab Spring? Are things better in those countries now than they were before? Are the movements we supported more pro-American than they were before? If you can find a copy, a book entitled "Unintended Consequences" would be a good primer to see how we got where we are with regards to the 2nd Amendment, and how a crisis could come about from a political problem.
I believe in being prepared, and there is little cost in buying a few extra cans of food, topping off the fuel tanks, or picking up some spare mags. Hell, even a spare rifle and pistol or two. If you don't need them right now, just store them away till you do. I value our preparedness over a shiny new car, an expensive watch, or an expensive vacation.
I live in a nice quiet neighborhood, but there is potential for unrest just a few miles away. I believe that being prepared to deal with contingencies is my responsibility to my family.
Among many threats, our entire nation is greatly at risk from disruption of the electrical grid. Whether caused by solar events, hacking of the grid, or an actual EMP attack, the loss of electrical power across a large portion of this country for more than a few days will cause a horrific end to this once great country. Our government knows that, but has done very little to prepare for it. It is almost like they are hoping for it. If you have not read it already, I suggest you take a look at "One Second After", by Forstchen.
Personally, I believe that civilization is on a gradual downward spiral. It may slow or even stop temporarily, but in the long-term, the trend is down.
I have seen America when it was great, but the lunatics have taken over the asylum now. PC is rampant. Good people fear speaking the truth. Men playing children's games are worshiped as heroes, and their opinions are considered Gospel. Actors and "musicians" are political experts. Religious beliefs (even those that wish to destroy us) are sacrosanct, except for Christians, who founded this country. And the media has completely abrogated their role and has clearly chosen sides in this. What really worries me is what kind of world will my kids and grand-kids grow up in?
We have largely lost the spirit that founded this country, and now have too many takers and not enough makers. Resources are being depleted. Manufacturing here is on life support. Socialism is making a strong comeback. Morals are low, there is no shame, and thugs are worshiped as heroes. And most Americans today value their security over their freedom.
Just my .02, YMMV.
TR
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