I have put a lot of thought into how I should go about writing this letter, and as I write it, I realize this is most likely not the best approach to defending myself before a jury. But as a man who was brought up in a devout Christian home, I was taught to always tell the truth. No matter the consequences.

Today, I stand before you as a victim. A man who refuses to feign remorse for actions I deemed necessary. In a world where survival often demands drastic measures, I simply acted in self-preservation. Regret is a luxury I cannot afford, nor do I seek absolution from those who fail to comprehend the complexities of my reality.

As I face the consequences of my actions, I cannot help but acknowledge the anguish my actions have caused the victim's family. To them, I extend my condolences, for I understand their pain, though I do not share it. However, those condolences do not equate to remorse or regret. For in the heat of the moment, my only concern was self-preservation. The events unfolded rapidly, leaving me with no choice but to defend myself against an imminent threat."

The law may judge me based on the outcome of that fateful encounter, but it fails to consider the circumstances that led to it. I am not a cold blooded murderer, but rather a survivor who fought tooth and nail to protect myself. To expect contrition from me is to disregard the fundamental instinct of survival that resides within us all.

While I may bear the burden of my actions, I refuse to carry the weight of unwarranted guilt for defending my own life. And though this statement may lead to a life of imprisonment, or even the death penalty, at least I know I will die an honest man, rather than a helpless victim at the hand of another man.