Introduction
E
verywhere you look in the world there are indications that people are frightened and angry. Intolerance, hate, and rage are spreading through cities like a wildfire and violence stands at the highest levels in history. Whether at work, at a mall, driving in traffic, walking down the street, in our schools, in our churches or spiritual gatherings, violence is a frequent and growing threat. Emotions are rising to a very high intensity and some people are increasingly unbalanced, triggered by common social interactions, and all too ready to argue, scream, yell, threaten, fight and to respond to even the slightest disagreement or provocation with verbal or forceful aggression, violence, and/or predatory violence. Concepts like tolerance, understanding, common courtesy, loving kindness, and caring for our human family have been exchanged for selfish and self-centered ego-based behaviors where the only thing that matters is our own opinion, beliefs, and/or meeting our own personal needs. The question is, in a climate of mounting unrest and social upheaval how can we keep ourselves and our families safe? In this article I suggest that an awareness of the nature of aggression, forceful aggression, violence, and predatory violence and preparedness against these four threats are your best defense and protection for yourself and your family. In the material in this article concerning self-defense questions may be raised regarding self-defense and the law. I am not an attorney, and this information should not be construed as legal advice. If you need legal advice, seek out and consult with an attorney. Physical self-defense skills are intended to be used only as a last resort and only to the degree that is necessary to preserve your safety or life. The best form of self-defense is avoidance.
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