Discretion and good judgment are the keys to a happy and stress-free life. Although the laws of the land may permit me certain liberties, such as carrying a sgian dubh, it doesn't necessarily make it a good idea to do so under certain circumstances. I've learned that exercising one's rights and freedoms is sometimes better eschewed in favour of keeping the peace and being better off for it.

In Japan, a sgian very much falls into grey areas in the law, but if some cop were to stop me with one, it could get ugly. Especially if he's one of the xenophobic, power-tripping s.o.b.s that you read about in the local papers... And even though I might ultimately win the battle, he still has the power to make my day MISERABLE... You got to know when to hold 'em and when to fold 'em.

In another country, for instance back in Canada, I would still be cautious with having one.

I would NOT wear one around children, especially young ones. (And therefore by logical extension, I would never wear one into a school).

I would NOT wear one where alcohol is involved. Too much can go awry and turn a pleasant night out with friends into a tragedy.

I would NOT wear one where I felt that it may cause me to become the centre of negative attention, whether by law enforcement, or by people who cannot understand or appreciate that it's not a weapon. (Like at a state fair).

I would NOT wear one where it could get lost, stolen, or damaged. (I save that privilege for my kilt pins... )

In fact, come to think of it, there are only very few events where I would actually consider wearing one...

I WOULD wear one to a Highland event (Highland games, etc)

I WOULD wear one to a ceremony or formal event.

I WOULD wear one to a Burns supper.

However, having said all that, I can't think of a single instance that would actually necessitate me having one, aside from the Burns supper... In all the others, a fake one or a Sgian Brew would be more than sufficient.

Please do note, however, my use of first person pronouns... Meaning, that I don't care where YOU wear or don't wear a sgian, nor am I interested in legislating where YOU should wear one... I'm merely saying that I have little need for one, as much as I LOVE knives and carry at the bare minimum, a Swiss army knife everywhere I go, always...