Self-defense isn’t optional. It’s not ‘escalation.’ It’s the most basic human right and the foundation of every free society. Not just against tyranny from government, but against the mob that wants to impose its will through force when it loses at the ballot box or in the arena of ideas. If you’re not training, if you’re [not] equipped, if you’re not mentally prepared to protect yourself, your family, and your community when the street brawlers or the lone wolves come for you, then you’re part of the problem. Apathy isn’t peacefulness. It’s surrender with extra steps.
I’m not calling for aggression. I’m calling for readiness. Stop pretending this side doesn’t exist. Stop waiting for someone else to have your back. Defend the principles of liberty, free speech, and ordered society the same way our forefathers did — with courage, with discipline, and yes, with the means to meet force with superior, justified force when necessary.
Defeat bad ideas at the ballot box and in debate. But never again be caught flat-footed when the debate ends and the violence begins. Stay ready. Freedom has always required it.