I pay more than 40% of my income to the government with the understanding they will use that money to defend the borders of the United States. I am not an agent of the government. It is an agent of mine.
Since you apparantly are happy paying this govt 40% of your money - great. Most socialists are happy little worker ants - like the chinese peasants - many little happy workers toiling for their masters. You don't really think the govt is an agent of yours, do you?
I prefer my freedom, I take responsibility for my actions and also will defend myself since the govt won't. If criminals were trapsing across my property, I would first attempt to hold them, if they tried to run ..... I will treat them as they deserve to be treated - as invaders.
...their boots would be pointing away from my house.
So far you've called me "brainwashed" and "socialist".
Yes. The government is an agent of mine. I fully realize it's doing a perfectly lousy job but it's a better job than someone with your weak skills about what purpose a society serves and how it should function can do. You're just another big-mouthed loose cannon with an Internet Warrior resume.
Step aside, Junior. There is real discussion going on around you.