DEAR HARRIETTE: The subdivision I live in has had two separate robberies this year. I've always been very anti-gun, but now I'm starting to think that a gun may be a viable option. I was raised anti-gun, so it’s just a morality thing, but I need to take the correct measures to protect myself. My home has a great security system, but I do live alone. How can I protect myself without abandoning my morals? -- Anti-Gun
DEAR ANTI-GUN: Having a gun will not likely protect you from a home invader because you are not trained in how to use it. Apart from your anti-gun sentiment, you need to be practical. I would upgrade your home security system and talk to the neighborhood association about hiring security guards or creating a neighborhood watch. You can hold on to your moral compass and work with your community to try to make your neighborhood safer.
(Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to askharriette@harriettecole.com or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.)