Thought of the Day, and threat dynamics

Once you say you're going to settle for second, that's what happens in life, I find. - John F. Kennedy

To answer a recent question: (from the USCCA)

1. Adopt the mindset that evil can strike anytime, anywhere — and be prepared by always paying attention to your surroundings. (Situational awareness)

2. Don't go somewhere with a weapon that you wouldn't go without it. After all, it's better to avoid a fight than to win one. (Conflict avoidance)

3. Only engage a threat if you absolutely have no other choice. (Threat de-escalation)

4. Only utilize a weapon if you fear death or grave bodily harm as a result of a conflict you didn't start and couldn't escape from and in which no lesser force is sufficient to stop the threat. (Rules governing the justifiable use of deadly force)