The past few weeks of me having pepper spray on my keys have raised a lot of questions from others. Questions such as, "Why do you need that?" "Why is it so important?" "Do you really plan on using that?" The answers are, I need it because I need some way to defend myself, it's important cause I need to protect myself at all times, and I do really plan on using it if it's needed.

I am a 17-year-old girl. This means I can't carry a gun legally and knives are hard to get my hands on and even if I can, they can only be a certain length. Pepper spray is not only legal for me to carry, but its safer than carrying a gun or a knife in my purse or pocket.

Personally, the fact that I even have to carry something to protect myself is so sad in itself. This shows how awful America has gotten. Someone is assaulted every day, but no one wants to talk about it. No one wants to talk about how unsafe our streets are.

My father always told me that I always need to protect myself, no matter who I'm with. Whether it be in a large group of friends or alone in a parking lot at night. He taught me how to be strong and brave and how to walk like I'm not scared of whats to come.

So, yes, I'll carry my pepper spray with pride. I will hold it tightly as I walk down streets and through malls and parking lots. I will have my protection at the ready if it is needed. Girls and guys of any age, please look into purchasing a form of protection for you. Be strong and be brave and don't let anyone try to tell you that it's irrelevant. Your safety is important.