Avoidance Tactics

With Covid-19 in the headlines, there is a growing anxiousness to return to normal. Anxiety is rearing its ugly head in the form of words that, at times, sound reckless or careless. Mostly visible are the social media attacks. Many are talking about taking on the virus and its consequences, head on.

As a long-time police officer, two-time cancer survivor, two-time shooting survivor (once by my own hand) and self-admitted prepper, I can say that I still get scared from time to time. Despite my fears, I am never afraid to move forward and do what needs to be done.

In a day where common sense isn’t common, let’s try and remember that not everything is just about us. Tactical thinking is one of the tools we sometimes neglect. The sayings, “Run, run, run away and live to fight another day,” or “disengage or escalate,” come to mind when considering the tactic of avoidance.

If while walking down the street with your family a seedy looking character approaches, how would you handle it? Do you have a knife or a gun on your person? Are you a mixed-martial-arts (MMA) fighter with a strong will to survive? Is there an opportunity to retreat or modify your course of direction? You have to consider that you have family walking with you. Despite all the tools or training you may have, you’re still responsible for them.

It’s also important to remember that the “Kung-Flu” is coming at you. Your Kung-Fu may be stronger, but what about those around you? If I were not responsible for my family, and if I didn’t feel a responsibility toward my fellow man, I might have no problem going toe-to-toe. But I am aware of the responsibility I have for those who share my desire to be careful, those I love.

Discretion is the better part of valor and until my hand is forced, I will choose avoidance almost every time. Unless I have a badge on my chest, family, other helpless humans around me or no path of egress, I’ll likely choose to use the tool of avoidance.

No doubt, there will be people around us who are careless and irresponsible. There will always be some who rush into a fight recklessly and throw bullets with little thought of the target, backstop or what’s beyond. In the face of uncertainty, this is a crucial time to make good decisions. The ability to swiftly make good decisions, while under pressure in times of adversity is what separates a warrior from a fool. When nobody but yourself is at risk of your actions, a poor decision lies only on your hands. When you operate as a team, poor decisions can lead to more than your own demise.

Like many Americans, I continue to suffer the monetary losses of social distancing. My concern is not only for myself, but for those in need of help. During this time, I am choosing to protect my elderly parents of poor health, as well as my friends and their families. I fight for the young, sick and pregnant and all who cannot fight for themselves. I’ve taken up the shield of avoidance and promise to keep them safe.