I just had to address what Judith said in her comment. Part of it read, “Because most people who are at risk of gay bashing (along with the general population) probably don’t know how to *use* a gun. Even if you do know how to use a gun, you’re more likely to have an accident, or accidentally kill the attacker rather than merely shooting them in the leg or frightening them, than you are to use the gun in the way you intended. What’s more, an attacker might, like you, know how to disarm a person, or might see the gun in her belt and grab it quickly. Same thing with knives, if you don’t know what you’re doing, someone could take your knife, or you could hurt yourself.”

OK, I realize I didn’t make myself totally clear, partly because the post was getting really long winded and I didn’t want to bore you to tears. But this is a good chance for me to clarify some things.

First of all, I don’t think that ANYONE, gay, straight, man or woman should own or carry a firearm if they are not well trained in the use and safety of said firearm. I think that everyone should at least take a safety course on the safe use and storage of guns, because even if you don’t own one personally, there is still a chance that you might encounter one. So it’s better that you know how to safely handle one, even if it’s just to unload it and clear the chamber so that you don’t accidentally shoot yourself or someone else.

Let me reiterate this point. I do NOT under any circumstances encourage people to own weapons that they are not trained in using. Including knives. I happen to be someone who is trained in the safe handling of various weapons, so I feel fine about it. My gf is also well trained in this area, so I trust her to carry a weapon if she feels the need to.

My point was not that violence is the perfect remedy.

My point was that sometimes violence is put upon us as a last resort and that I would love to know that more women were capable of defending themselves, their girlfriend or their children.

Also I think that being trained (well trained) in some form of self-defense, like Krav Maga is the best solution. If your body is your weapon then you can never be disarmed and your weapon can never be used against you. In my opinion this is the best option. Because you know for sure that you would never accidentally harm an innocent person. Your skills would only ever be used in the defense of your life or that of your loved one.

Secondly, I am not “afraid” of men and I was not trying to bash straight men in general by categorizing them in a negative way. But the fact is that when my gf and I feel threatened, 10 out of 10 times it is by seemingly straight men. Of course they could be self-hating, closeted gay men afraid of their own sexuality and thats why they’re so upset. I apologize if I came across as being mad or scared of men in general. That couldn’t be further from the truth. My closest and most trusted friends are straight men who I love and respect.

Lastly, I have to say that Judith was correct when she said that most self defense classes teach you to RUN first. That is true. If you can run, RUN. Damn, kick them in the balls and run like hell. But sometimes that’s not an option. I’m just trying to encourage women and men alike to keep their eyes open, watch their backs and be prepared for the worst case scenario. A lot of times a bad situation can be avoided just by being aware of your surroundings.
So I wish all my readers safety and well-being. If some of you find a little extra well-being in a bottle of pepper spray then go for it.

Oh and Judith, don’t be worried about coming to LA. For the most part it’s probably one of the most gay friendly cities in the world. You’ll be fine. And if anyone messes with you, give me a call and I’ll kick’em in the nuts for you,

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