Compassion as a Counterbalance to Violence

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Editor’s Note: This article has been updated to include additional data based on the federal definition of mass shooting (≥3 killed with a firearm in one incident). The original text remains unchanged; a clarifying paragraph has been added for accuracy and context.

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My heart is breaking at the news of yet another mass shooting. This time, the tragedy struck a Catholic church that the shooter himself had attended, and where his mother had once worked. Two children were killed and seventeen others wounded. It is almost unbearable to process such loss.

Whenever these events occur, the public conversation often turns quickly to mental illness as the explanation. While it is true that many perpetrators of mass violence are deeply disturbed, we must be careful not to use mental illness as a blanket scapegoat. One-third of Americans—over 120 million people—are on mental health prescription drugs, yet the vast majority live peaceful lives and would never dream of committing such atrocities.

And here’s an important reality check: in the last forty years, there have been fewer than thirty mass shootings targeting schools, places of worship, and businesses. Fewer than fifty shooters caused more than six hundred deaths and injuries. The scale of devastation is enormous, but the number of perpetrators is strikingly small. Which tells us something: it does not take an epidemic of killers to shake a society—it only takes a handful of deeply broken individuals.

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By the federal definition—a mass shooting being an incident in which three or more people are killed with a firearm in one event—over the past forty years there have been as many as 151 such attacks on schools, businesses, and houses of worship, carried out by 156 shooters. Together, these incidents claimed between 453 and 1,000 lives. Put another way, in a country of over 330 million people, the annualized per-person risk of dying in one of these events is about 1 in 76 million.

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“151 attacks. 156 shooters. Up to 1,000 lives lost.
Rare—yet devastating.”

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Instead, we need to look closer at the places where pain and alienation grow. Our own religious communities have already witnessed troubling cases: arsonists, drunk drivers, addicts, even attempted murder. And beyond the visible crises, we cannot ignore the hidden damage of rape, child molestation, and domestic violence. We are not immune.

What can we do? Sometimes the answer is much simpler than we think. A smile. A handshake. A genuine interest in another person—not laced with judgment about their observance or lack thereof. Small gestures of compassion can make a difference.

From a situational awareness perspective, one should be looking for outsized, disproportionate feelings. Who around you seems deeply disgruntled, trapped, lost, or angry? Who is the loner, the rebellious teen, or the colleague who feels taken advantage of? These emotions may be flashing indicators that friendship, guidance, or professional help could be needed. At work, that might mean reporting a colleague to HR—not as punishment, but as a way of flagging that emotional support is necessary. Or it could mean something even more direct: simply making a friend.

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“We must care enough to reach the lost—and be ready to stop the ones we cannot reach.”

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But compassion alone is not enough. We still need to prepare for the possibility of an active shooter. Ed Monk, a retired Army officer and trainer who has studied these attacks, points out that the key factor in the number of victims is response time. If resistance begins within thirty seconds, the victim count is likely to stay in the single digits. Without it, casualties rise quickly. And the hard truth is this: there will almost always be at least one victim. That means people on location—teachers, staff, congregants, co-workers, even children—must be willing to fight back in whatever way they can. The data is clear: any resistance, even from the smallest and weakest, significantly lowers the body count.

Compassion is not naïve. I am not suggesting that kindness could have stopped Hitler, or even the young man who opened fire in that church. Some people choose evil despite every effort to reach them. But what I do know with certainty is that shaming, belittling, bullying, discarding, abusing, or maligning our youth fuels despair and rage. These wounds can fester into dangerous outcomes.

As someone who has survived abuse, I know firsthand the desire for revenge that can take root in a young heart. Teens and young adults are still governed primarily by emotions; their brains are not fully matured. When we see destructive behavior, like the burning of a yeshiva, (religious school) I would wager that beneath it lies a real grudge, grounded in experiences of rejection or pain.

A significant proportion of crime is revenge-driven. If we can interrupt that cycle with compassion—by showing young people that they are seen, valued, and cared for—we stand a better chance of preventing violence before it begins.

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“Compassion is the counterbalance to evil; preparation is the shield against it.”

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Compassion will never erase evil from the world. But it is the most powerful counterbalance we have. And when compassion is combined with preparedness, we give ourselves the best chance to both prevent and stop the next tragedy.

Situational Awareness: A skill set for every member of the Baltimore/Pikesville Jewish Community

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It can & does happen everywhere — including here in Baltimore’s Pikesville Jewish community.

If you saw someone walking toward your car in the grocery store parking lot — and you couldn’t see their hands — would you notice in time to act?

If torrential rain started falling during your commute, and flash flood alerts hit your phone, would you know the safest route home — or what roads to avoid?

If someone collapsed in front of you during Shabbos services, does your shul have a medical kit?

Do you know where it is? Do you know the people in shul who are part of Hatzolah? Are you capable of doing CPR or other first-stage emergency medical intervention?

If smoke started filling the hallway during a packed during a wedding event, could you guide your family — and maybe others — to the nearest safe exit without hesitation?

If you heard three sharp pops in the middle of Shabbat services would you recognize the sound, and would you know what to do in the next five seconds to keep yourself and others alive?

If your child finds a firearm, do they know what to do? Do you?

Whether large or small, these situations can be dealt with more efficiently, more securely, and with more confidence through situational awareness.

What Is Situational Awareness?At its core, situational awareness is the ability to recognize what’s happening around you, understand what it means, and respond in a way that keeps you and others safe. It’s not about living in fear — it’s about noticing details that others miss and acting before those details become a threat.

Definition #1 — The OODA Loop (Formal Model)

The OODA Loop — Observe, Orient, Decide, Act — is a proven process used by military, law enforcement, and security professionals.

  1. Observe – Scan your surroundings with all of your senses — people, vehicles, sounds, smells, movements, environmental changes.
  2. Orient – Compare what you’re noticing to what’s normal for that environment. Ask yourself: Does anything feel out of place?
  3. Decide – Choose the safest and most effective response based on what you’ve observed.
  4. Act – Carry out that decision quickly and decisively

This isn’t a one-time thing — it’s a constant cycle happening in the background of everything you do.

Definition #2 — Everyday, Civilian-Friendly Version

Think of situational awareness as a habit you build into daily life:

  1. Look Around – Pay attention to what’s happening nearby.
  2. Understand It – Is it normal or unusual?
  3. Think Ahead – What will you do if something changes suddenly?
  4. Do Something – When you need to act, act without hesitation.The same approach works everywhere — from a busy grocery aisle at 7 Mile Market, to a school pickup line with an unfamiliar vehicle, to a minyan where a sound catches your attention or at a gas or charging station for your vehicle.

The Five Categories of Situational Awareness

While the skill is one, the threats and challenges we face are varied. In our Baltimore/Pikesville Jewish community, these fall into five main categories:

1. Crime

We need to break crime into two types:

Opportunity Crimes – These are crimes that happen because a criminal sees an easy target. Recently we’ve seen attempted carjackings by predators who notice you on the phone at a stop light or parked in a lot, not paying attention to your environment, vehicle break-ins because people didn’t lock their doors, and thefts because valuables were left in plain sight. These are preventable by removing the opportunity — locking vehicles, staying alert, putting your phone down, and keeping valuables out of sight.

Hate Crimes – Targeted anti-Semitic attacks, where strangers harass, threaten, or assault people simply because they are visibly Jewish. When walking, look behind you periodically. Walk with at least two people or with a dog. If you’re alone, walk with purpose and maintain a confident posture — it signals you are not an easy target. Do not engage with people yelling hateful things — it serves no benefit. Get to safety and call Shomrim, then the police.

2. Emergencies – Emergencies come in two broad forms — those caused by the weather, and those that are not weather-related. Both require advance thought and the right tools to respond safely.

Weather-Related Emergencies – In Maryland, this often means torrential rains, flash floods, high winds, and storms that knock out electricity. Situational awareness here means checking the forecast before leaving the house, knowing your route, and monitoring conditions. Use tools like Waze for a bird’s-eye view of roads ahead, including closures and hazards. Have an emergency bag in your vehicle with water, tools, extra clothing, snacks, chargers, first aid supplies, and signaling devices. Keep a home kit for power outages and severe storms. Get a generator.

Non-Weather-Related Emergencies – These include vehicle breakdowns, accidents, and other urgent situations that can leave you vulnerable. If your car breaks down, do you have the ability to change a tire? If not, have the number for a tow truck, AAA membership or Chaverim programmed into your phone? Keep safety flares, reflective triangles, or LED beacons in your car to clearly mark your location so you aren’t hit by passing traffic. This is about safety from both accidents and opportunistic crime while stranded.

3. Medical Emergencies

From fainting to cardiac arrest, speed matters. Don’t just call Hatzolah — know where medical kits are in your shul and who has medical training. Take Stop the Bleed, CPR, and basic first aid. If you want to go further, take tactical medicine training. In an emergency, assign roles fast: one calls Hatzolah, one gets the kit, one starts care.

4. Fire

Every building has at least two exits — find them immediately. Don’t assume you’ll leave through the same door you entered. If you live upstairs, have collapsible escape ladders and practice using them with your kids. Fires in our community often start from Shabbos candles, stovetops under a blech, or long-burning appliances. Place candles on sturdy, non-flammable surfaces away from curtains and tablecloths. Monitor stovetops for safety and ventilation. Keep fire extinguishers and first-aid kits in accessible spots. Evacuate first, investigate later.

5. Active Shooter

Pre-Planning – Every shul and school should have an Emergency Operations Plan specific to their environment. Heads of schools, Rabbis and Boards need to consult professionals and community resources to develop it. Evaluate the structures. Are they hard or soft targets? Can a vehicle drive into the building? Do the windows have ballistic film and tinting? Who takes charge? What do people do? Is there a plan for emergency medical care for the victims? What items are cover (objects that stop bullets) and concealment (objects that hide you but don’t stop bullets)? Is there staged furniture if barricading becomes necessary? This is not an extensive list. Failing to plan is a plan for double digit victim counts. Period. There is no excuse in this day and age. If nothing else, the accountability itself should motivate institutions. There are online resources, and there are professionals both within and outside our community who can help write these plans (including us).

In the Moment – If shots are fired, there’s already at least one victim. The first 30 seconds are critical if you want to keep the victim count in the single digits. After that, it goes up fast.

Fight, flee, or hide — in that order. Fight with whatever you have, however you can, with everything you’ve got. It doesn’t matter if you’re untrained, young, old, male, female, adult or child — if you’re able, fight. The data from the last 40 years of active shooters is clear: the sooner the shooter is confronted, the fewer victims there are.

If you can’t fight, flee – create distance. No, you can’t outrun a bullet, but a moving target is harder to hit than someone crouched under a desk. The more distance between you and the shooter the higher your survivability rate is. Run to the closest cover you can find. If the shooter is in a building, get out. If the shooter is outside, get in.

If you can’t fight or flee, hide behind cover if you can, concealment if you can’t — but know that walls, doors, and windows do not stop bullets. Active Shooters have fired through all of them to hit their targets.

Teaching Your Children Situational Awareness

Start as young as you can and be consistent. Make it fun and normal, not scary.

Turn it into a game:

  • In the car: “Without looking, what color is the car next to us?”
  • Walking: “Can you describe what that person is wearing?”
  • In a building: “Find me two ways out of here.”
  • On the street: “What’s different about this block today?”

Teach them to recognize safe adults they can approach if they’re lost — police officers, security guards, store clerks, trusted community members. Teach them to identify sounds — sirens, barking dogs, approaching vehicles. Practice keeping personal space in public.

With older kids, practice memorizing parts of license plates or noticing routes and spotting changes.

Firearm Safety for All Children

Even if you don’t own a gun, your child may encounter one elsewhere. Kids get into everything.

They visit friends’ homes. And yes, many homes in this community have firearms — some stored responsibly, some not.

The NRA’s Eddie Eagle GunSafe® Program teaches four steps every child should know:

  1. Stop
  2. Don’t Touch
  3. Run Away
  4. Tell a Grown-Up

Practice these often so the reaction is automatic. This isn’t about fear — it’s about safety. If you practice these skills — and teach them to your children — situational awareness becomes more than an idea. It becomes a habit. And habits save lives.

About the Author & Liberty Firearms Training

Yacov Margolese is the Founder and Lead Instructor of Liberty Firearms Training (LFT), a veteran-owned training organization serving the Baltimore/Pikesville Jewish community and surrounding areas. A decorated U.S. Army combat veteran, retired Federal law enforcement officer, and former Federal security contractor, Margolese is also a current Maryland State Police Certified Firearms Instructor, credentialed through both the NRA Law Enforcement Division and the NRA Civilian Division. With more than two decades of operational and training experience, Margolese specializes in situational awareness, threat recognition, emergency response, and defensive firearms training— bringing practical, real-world application to every course. This foundation is reflected in LFT’s guiding principle: Train with Purpose!

Liberty Firearms Training offers a full range of safety and defensive programs, including:

  • Situational Awareness seminars tailored to your shul, school, or business needs.
  • Emergency Operations Plan (EOP) development for shuls, schools, and community institutions.
  • Fundamentals of emergency medicine and tactical medical training.
  • Defensive firearms training at all levels, including Maryland Handgun Qualification
  • License (HQL) and Wear & Carry (concealed carry) permit courses.
  • Concierge-style firearms instruction, available one-on-one or in small private groups for maximum personal attention.
  • Firearm safety education for all ages.

For more information or to schedule training:

443-929-0028
Contact@LibertyFirearmsTraining.org
www.LibertyFirearmsTraining.org

P.S. Since Oct. 7th Liberty Firearms Training has offered the Situational Awareness Seminar for FREE to all shuls in Baltimore. The Seminar is 90 minutes consisting of a 60 minute presentation and 30 minutes of Q&A. We have already been presented at multiple shuls and more are in the works. This is an OPEN offer.

 

Security man holding metal weapon detector scanner for checking male passenger who going through procedure of physical inspection at entrance airplane gate. Airport security check before flight.

Choosing the Right Training Provider for Your Security Guard Agency

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Introduction

Choosing a training provider is critical for any security guard agency. The right partner ensures compliance with Maryland law—covering the 17 objectives mandated by the Maryland Police and Correctional Training Commissions (MPCTC)—while also teaching practical skills that boost officer performance and reduce turnover. Below are the core considerations that can guide your decision-making.

  1. Verify Compliance with Title 19 and MPCTC
  • Only MPCTC-Approved Providers
    Under Title 19 of the Annotated Code of Maryland (Business Occupations and Professions), security guard agencies must use an MPCTC-approved source for the required curriculum.
  • Mandatory 17 Objectives
    These objectives form the bedrock of legally compliant training, covering laws, ethical conduct, de-escalation, report writing, and more. Providers must address these before adding specialized modules.
  • Distinction from MSP
    While the Maryland State Police (MSP) licenses security agencies and guards, MPCTC certifies the training agency, its instructors, and the curriculum content. Confirming your provider has an active MPCTC “Agency ID” and “G” program number for the 17 objectives is paramount.

Why It Matters:
Using an MPCTC-approved provider ensures your guards meet state mandates, reducing liability, protecting your reputation, and giving you confidence in your training investment.

  1. Measure Training Effectiveness
  • Regular Refreshers & Re-Qualifications
    Compliance doesn’t end after the initial 12-hour course. Look for a provider offering ongoing in-service training (at least eight hours every three years) and frequent re-qualifications.
  • Performance Tracking
    High pass rates are valuable indicators, but consistent officer evaluations, drills, and follow-up training sessions reveal how well those lessons translate to real-world performance.
  • Reduced Turnover
    Skilled, confident officers typically remain in the field longer, saving recruitment costs. A provider’s measurable results—such as improved retention—demonstrate the true payoff of quality training.

Why It Matters:
A data-driven, continuous-improvement model helps decision-makers see actual ROI, not just a certificate on the wall.

  1. Balance Scheduling with Operational Demands
  • Flexible Class Times
    Security shifts often happen on nights, weekends, and holidays. A training partner that offers varied schedules helps you maintain round-the-clock coverage without exhausting your staff.
  • Realistic Training Environments
    Hands-on exercises in a well-equipped, safe facility better prepare officers for real-world scenarios—whether that’s conducting routine patrols or dealing with emergency threats.

Why It Matters:
Efficient scheduling and venue options support officer preparedness without compromising your agency’s service commitments to clients.

  1. Elevate Officer Performance & Morale
  • Foundation + Advanced Skills
    Once the 17 MPCTC objectives are covered, advanced training in patrol tactics, threat identification, and emergency response can be layered on top—ensuring your team isn’t just “certified” but also truly competent.
  • Impact on Turnover
    Investing in robust, ongoing training sends a strong message to officers: you value their professional development and well-being. This increases job satisfaction and loyalty.
  • Better Client Relationships
    A well-trained, confident guard force fosters trust with clients, leading to contract renewals, referrals, and a stronger public image for your agency.

Why It Matters:
Focusing on skill-building beyond the minimum legal requirements strengthens morale and helps deliver measurable business value.

  1. Why Partner with Liberty Firearms Training (LFT)?
  • Verified MPCTC Authority
    LFT holds a recognized Agency ID (#30090) with MPCTC and maintains approved curricula for the mandatory 17 objectives—giving you full legal compliance from day one.
  • Approved Instructors & Curricula
    Each of LFT’s instructors and courses meets MPCTC’s strict standards. LFT provides ongoing updates and re-qualifications to stay current with changing regulations and industry best practices.
  • Performance-Focused Approach
    LFT tracks pass rates, conducts regular follow-ups, and fine-tunes its training methods based on both officer feedback and real-world results. That means you can see clear evidence of skill enhancement and retention.
  • Expanded Skill Coverage
    Beyond the fundamentals, LFT offers modules in patrol tactics, threat identification, de-escalation, and emergency response—preparing officers for an evolving security landscape.

Result:
When you choose LFT, you tap into a team committed to legal compliance, operational excellence, and the long-term growth of your security force.

Summary

A top-tier training provider doesn’t stop at fulfilling MPCTC’s 17 objectives. It also aligns with Title 19, integrates advanced skills for real-world readiness, tracks measurable outcomes, and accommodates your operational constraints. Liberty Firearms Training (LFT) exemplifies this approach—offering MPCTC-approved courses, flexible schedules, thorough performance tracking, and a holistic curriculum that empowers officers far beyond the basics. Your agency gains legal peace of mind, operational effectiveness, and a professional workforce ready to protect and serve at the highest standard.

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Firearms Training Q&A Series – Week 2

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Q: How do I choose the right firearms trainer?

A: Not all firearms instructors are created equal. A great instructor does more than just explain how to shoot—they provide clear guidance, correct bad habits, and ensure you build safe, effective skills. Choosing the right trainer can make the difference between becoming a confident shooter and developing bad habits that are difficult to correct later. Here’s what to look for when selecting a firearms instructor.

Instructor Credentials Matter—But They’re Not Everything

A qualified instructor should have the right certifications, but credentials alone don’t guarantee good teaching ability. Consider the following:

  • National Certifications: Look for instructors certified by organizations such as the NRA, USCCA, or state-approved training bodies.
  • Professional Background: Experience in law enforcement, military, or competitive shooting can be valuable, but only if the instructor knows how to teach civilian shooters.
  • State and Legal Compliance: Ensure the instructor meets all state training requirements and understands the legal responsibilities of firearm ownership.

While credentials show a baseline of knowledge, the best instructors go beyond the paperwork to provide effective, student-focused training.

Teaching Ability: Can They Adapt to Your Learning Style?

A great shooter doesn’t always make a great teacher. Firearms training should be structured, clear, and adaptable to your needs. When evaluating an instructor, consider:

  • Communication Skills: Do they explain concepts in a way that’s easy to understand?
  • Patience and Adaptability: Can they adjust their approach based on your learning style, experience level, or even physical limitations?
  • Emphasis on Safety and Fundamentals: A good trainer will correct bad habits early and reinforce safe firearm handling at all times.

Some trainers focus too much on advanced tactics rather than ensuring students master the basics. No amount of tactical drills will help if you don’t have a solid foundation in the fundamentals.

Class Size and Student-to-Instructor Ratio

The number of students in a class directly affects the quality of instruction.

  • Private Training: Provides individual attention and allows for faster skill development since the focus is entirely on you.
  • Small Group Classes: Can be effective if the instructor keeps the group small enough to offer individualized feedback.
  • Large Classes: Often lack the one-on-one coaching needed to identify and correct specific mistakes.

For new shooters or those looking to refine their skills, private instruction is often the best option to ensure proper fundamentals.

Training Philosophy and Real-World Relevance

Some instructors are overly rigid in their methods, while others adapt training based on real-world needs. Look for a trainer who:

  • Teaches practical, applicable skills rather than just rigid textbook drills.
  • Focuses on real-world firearm use, including safe handling, situational awareness, and defensive mindset.
  • Encourages ongoing learning, helping students progress beyond just the basics.

If an instructor isn’t willing to adapt their approach to help you learn effectively, they may not be the right fit.

Finding the Right Fit

Choosing a firearms trainer is a personal decision. Beyond certifications and experience, the right instructor should make you feel comfortable, confident, and challenged to improve. If you’re serious about training, investing in quality instruction with a private coach can accelerate your progress and build a strong foundation.

For those looking for expert one-on-one firearms training,Liberty Firearms Training offers personalized instruction tailored to your skill level and goals.

What do you value most in a firearms instructor? Share your thoughts in the comments.

#FirearmsTraining #ChoosingATrainer #PrivateTraining #ShootingSkills

Firearms Training Q&A Series – Week 1

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Q: What are the most important factors for beginners to consider when choosing firearms training?

A: Choosing the right firearms training is one of the most important decisions a new gun owner can make. A good program not only teaches you how to shoot but also builds the habits and mindset necessary for safe and responsible firearm ownership. Here’s what to consider before signing up for a course.

Safety First
Firearms training should always begin with a strong foundation in safety. Without proper instruction, even experienced shooters can develop bad habits that increase the risk of accidents. The best training programs emphasize the four universal firearm safety rules:

  • Treat all firearms as if they are loaded.
  • Never point the muzzle at anything you don’t intend to destroy.
  • Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on target and you are ready to fire.
  • Always be aware of your target and what is beyond it.

These rules are the cornerstone of responsible firearm handling, and quality instruction ensures they become second nature.

Private Training vs. Classroom Instruction
One of the biggest choices in firearms training is whether to go with a group class or private instruction. While group classes may be more affordable, they lack the personalized attention that helps beginners build confidence and skill quickly. Private training offers several advantages:

  • One-on-One Attention – In a private session, the instructor focuses entirely on you, correcting mistakes immediately and ensuring you develop proper technique from the start.
  • Faster Skill Development – Without the distractions of a group setting, students in private lessons progress at their own pace without feeling rushed or held back by others.
  • Customized Training – Every shooter has different needs. Private instruction allows training to be tailored specifically to your skill level, learning style, and personal goals.
  • Comfort and Confidence – Many new shooters feel intimidated in a group class, especially if they have little to no experience. Private instruction eliminates that pressure and creates a more relaxed learning environment.

If your goal is to develop real competence with a firearm, private training is the most effective way to get there.

Quality Over Cost
Firearms training is an investment in your safety, and choosing a course based on price alone can be a costly mistake in the long run. Low-cost classes often cut corners by using less experienced instructors, offering limited range time, or rushing students through important fundamentals. When evaluating a training program, consider:

  • Instructor Credentials – Look for instructors with nationally recognized certifications and real-world experience in firearms instruction.
  • Course Structure – A well-designed course should balance classroom instruction with live-fire training in a controlled, safe environment.
  • Student-to-Instructor Ratio – Large group classes may limit how much individual attention each student receives.

Spending a little more on high-quality instruction ensures that you build safe habits, gain real competence, and avoid the frustration of having to unlearn bad techniques later.

Making the Right Choice
The right firearms training program should give you more than just a certificate—it should provide you with the confidence, skills, and mindset needed for responsible gun ownership. If you’re serious about learning to shoot safely and effectively, investing in private instruction from a qualified trainer is the best path forward.

For those looking to take their training seriously, Liberty Firearms Training offers expert one-on-one instruction tailored to your needs.

What’s the most important factor for you when choosing a firearms training course? Let’s discuss in the comments.

#FirearmsTraining #HandgunSafety #PrivateTraining #ShootingSkills

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