I know this is a touchy subject but it is talked about in our shop a lot. Every time I turn on the idiot box, I see another child has been abducted or beaten or killed. I don’t understand how someone can have this mentality, but that is moot.
These predators are out there in every city and neighborhood, and some of the Web sites, like Felony Spy aren’t always up to date because people move, especially when they are on the run from everyone. I highly suggest, no matter the age, you talk to your kids and have a plan on what to do and not to do if someone comes after them. Don’t be shy to come up on a suspicious character and ask his business. Do the buddy system. Put them in a mixed Martial Arts class and show them soft spots on the body; it’s okay to know how to fight and hurt someone if it is used correctly.
I have three girls, ages 17, 11 and 2 plus a 5-year old boy who I adore. I would take my own life for my babies and fight to the death if need be. One thing I teach is that even if you have a weapon on you, do not get in the car or you are dead! Fight, scream, kick, run, act like a nut and hope the predator runs from the commotion.
We are taught these days that if someone strikes you, just let it go and tell the proper authority, even at school. Well I say baloney; you get hit, you fight back. It is called self defense and it is your right! Find what works best for you and your family and don’t be shy to teach kids to fight back. It is our job as parents to teach our kids to be safe, and bowing down to the violence doesn’t work. It breaks down self esteem and helps the nutbars and the bullies feel stronger. Let’s not be so politically correct and wimpy on this subject… Remember when we were young and the guy bothering you quit after a good shot to the jaw? I do.
Let’s let our political leaders know that just maybe a good ‘ol hanging or to get thrown back into general population in prison might help these nuts to stop. Six years, three served and probation with a special cell block doesn’t seem to be working. I’m more comfortable with a noose and a hole in the ground.