I’ve done it so many times in class, it was just instinctive for me.

He grabbed me from behind, and I just reacted. I grabbed him by the wrist, then stepped back, putting one foot between and just behind his feet. I twisted slightly, and threw him over my shoulder. My sensei would have been so proud.

Except that I followed it with a punch. Right in the throat. I hit him so hard, I felt his windpipe crumple from the blow. I looked him in the eyes as he died.

Now, I have to explain to the police that I didn’t mean to do it. I was startled. I didn’t know there was anyone on the street with me. He just grabbed me, and I reacted. Over-reacted.

And worse, I have to explain to my little girl why her daddy isn’t coming home anymore.