An apology -- to someone

On Sunday I ran into a gentleman at the Orlando Gun Show who actually kept a copy of my very first edition.  He brought it to show me -- with great pride.  I was likewise impressed, and somewhat awed that anyone would think that much of the book to keep it for over twenty years.  We talked for a while, and I offered to trade him my new one for his "first edition".   He said he'd think about it, and came back a few hours later to do it, with a proviso I did a special autograph.  For those of you who don't know me -- that was a dangerous request . . .   because I rarely have a serious bone in my body, and have far too much fun with what I consider "friendly" sarcasm.  My friends understand this -- and tolerate it -- and is probably a large reason I have so few friends.  Unfortunately -- not everyone else in the world understands that I have this somewhat biting sarcastic sense of humor -- and every now and then they take it the wrong way -- which I admit, is generally my fault.   Anyway,  this time -- it was really the wrong way -- and my choice of words truly offended him, and were taken as an insult rather than the humor -- I thought they would convey.  So -- I unintentionally insulted someone who I really liked, and respected.   Damn!   When will I ever learn?   (probably never)

Well . . .  I tried to offer him another book, and a different (non-sarcastic) autograph . . . but he was too upset to even listen.  He told me to keep both,  turned around and left the show before I could do anything further.  And . . .  it really upset me (and still does) that I let this man down, when I was trying to do just the opposite.

So . . .  if you hear about someone bitching and moaning how Gutmacher was a jerk at the Gun Show, and embarrassed him -- tell him to read this post -- because I need him to understand I really did appreciate the gesture . . .  greatly . . . and obviously need to work on my communication skills when it comes to writing an autograph.   I owe him a book -- and an autograph he'd be proud of.  Maybe, I'll get lucky, and he'll forgive me for making a mistake.

Sorry this isn't about guns or the law . . .  don't worry . . .  I'm sure the next post will take care of that.