There are those of us out there who are not remotely opposed to an individual citizen's right to keep and bear arms, particularly for the purpose of defending themselves when it is necessary--but for ourselves, we would rather not level a gun at someone and pull the trigger, knowing we could take a life.

Whether it's just not in our nature, our constitution (no pun intended), or our personal ethics, we would just not able to do that, even in a moment of desperation.

I am one of those individuals. I am at peace with this part of me, as I know that it comes from a very personal decision that I would rather not take someone else's life, even if my own was threatened. But that does not mean I would not take measures to defend myself in a dangerous situation.

If you are like me and want to know what steps you can take to defend your life, your family, and your property, let me tell you about what I do and have done. This may ease your mind so that you can face a crucial moment with confidence.

I carry a can of pepper spray with me wherever I go. This may seem paranoid, but I have a small canister I keep on the zipper of my purse, making it unobtrusive, but still there if I should ever need it.

Pepper spray actually acts on an assailant to inflame the capillaries in the eyes, causing temporary blindness. Other types of deterrent sprays literally cause pain to your attacker, but if he or she is under the influence of drugs or alcohol, this sometimes is not effective. Pepper spray, however, actually incapacitates one of their most vital senses, making it much easier for you to call the police or flee--or both.

You may be opposed to carrying a handgun, but consider that a twenty-two millimeter is actually not a lethal weapon unless you choose to make it one. It can do considerable damage, but you can use it without killing someone else. If you are attacked, use it to shoot the shoulder, the knee, or even the stomach--the attacker will be in enough pain that they will likely abandon their crime.

If you live in a residence that allows dogs, you may want to consider adopting a breed that is intelligent, friendly to its family, but will guard against home invasion by strangers. My uncle bred German shepherds, and having them in our home was a great privilege.

They were wonderful with my siblings and I from the time we were young children, but they at times went great lengths to keep us safe.
These are just a few things to consider as you seek to keep yourself and your family protected. This is a scary world we live in, but there are no rules that say you have to be willing to take someone else's life to defend your own. There are other ways. Just think about these suggestions.