Defending oneself, one’s loved ones, or property is a fundamental right. But with great power comes great responsibility. A defender who is ill-prepared or unaware can cause harm instead of offering protection.

Here are some truths to remember for anyone who wants to be a defender.

Truth 1: Being a defender requires knowledge and training.

Defending oneself or others is not just a matter of having a weapon or being physically strong. One must understand the legal and ethical implications of violence. One must know how to use a weapon safely and effectively.

One must be familiar with common self-defense techniques and tactics. One must also practice regularly to stay sharp and confident.

Truth 2: Being a defender requires a plan.

Reacting to a threat without a plan can lead to panic, indecision, and suboptimal results. A defender should have a clear and flexible plan for different scenarios, such as home invasion, carjacking, or street mugging.

A plan should include escape routes, communication protocols, and fallback options. A defender should also know when to disengage and when to escalate force.

Truth 3: Being a defender requires situational awareness.

One cannot defend against a threat that one does not perceive. One must develop the habit of observing and assessing one’s surroundings at all times. One must look for signs of danger, such as unusual noises, suspicious persons, or sudden movements.

One must also be aware of one’s own behavior, such as body language, voice tone, or facial expressions, that can influence the behavior of others.

Truth 4: Being a defender requires emotional control.

Being a defender can trigger strong emotions, such as fear, anger, or guilt. One must learn to manage these emotions in a constructive way, rather than letting them dictate one’s actions.

One must also be aware of the emotions of others, such as the attacker, the victim, or the bystanders, and avoid escalating or overreacting.

Truth 5: Being a defender has consequences.

Defending oneself or others can have legal, financial, and social consequences. One must be prepared to face these consequences and minimize them as much as possible.

One must also be aware of the moral and spiritual implications of violence, and seek guidance and support from trusted sources, such as family, friends, or clergy.

Truth 6: Being a defender is a last resort.

Defending oneself or others should be a last resort, not a first impulse. One should try to avoid or de-escalate a conflict whenever possible, by using verbal skills, negotiation, or avoidance.

One should also consider the consequences of not defending oneself or others, such as loss of life, liberty, or dignity.

Truth 7: Being a defender is a constant journey.

Being a defender is not a one-time event, but a lifelong journey of learning, practicing, and adapting. One should seek feedback, knowledge, and experiences from diverse sources, such as instructors, mentors, peers, or books.

One should also stay humble, open-minded, and willing to learn from mistakes.

Truth 8: Being a defender is a personal choice.

Being a defender is not for everyone, nor should it be. One should make a personal choice based on one’s own values, goals, and abilities.

One should also respect the choice of others, whether they choose to defend themselves or not, and avoid judging, shaming, or pressuring them.

Truth 9: Being a defender is a human right.

Being a defender is not only a personal choice, but also a human right.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, adopted by the United Nations General Assembly in 1948, states in Article 3 that “Everyone has the right to life, liberty, and security of person”. This right implies the right to self-defense, both individually and collectively, against physical or moral threats.

Truth 10: Being a defender is a noble calling.

Being a defender is not only a personal choice and a human right, but also a noble calling. A defender who acts with courage, compassion, and competence can inspire others to do the same.

A defender who respects human dignity, diversity, and solidarity can contribute to a more peaceful and just society.

Conclusion

Being a defender is not a simple or easy task, but a complex and challenging one. It requires knowledge, training, planning, situational awareness, emotional control, responsibility, humility, respect, choice, rights, and nobility.

It is a journey that lasts a lifetime and a calling that demands the best of oneself. It is also a fundamental human right and a noble aspiration. May we all remember these truths and act accordingly.