Mr. Fiorello,
I quite enjoyed your writing. I have seen several examples over the years of the lack of contact creating a very false sense of security. I once watched a volunteer security group for an event and asked where they trained. They told me then asked if I wanted to "check it out". Nobody could hit or kick well enough to be effective. I am not that good, they were clearly not trained well. I explained intent and showed some examples of somebody who means you harm. One would have thought I was evil personified from the reactions, but thankfully a few realized that they were not prepared to handle a real situation and hopefully harm prevented.
Concomitant with the false sense of security, I also find a sense of moral indignation when one causes any cracks in that illusion.
I hope many read your piece and face that question in safe privacy.
Regards
Stephen Baker
"Never cruel nor cowardly, never give up, never give in." Doctor Who