Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Just Like That

And just like THAT, my perspective is altered.

Just like that, when I'm walking my dog

at night

alone.

Just like that, when the carload of men drives past,

the SUV slowing

the men leaning out the window

their voices loud and commanding,

their intent a little above a general cat call.

When they turn around

and pass again,

and slow down,

and the calls become more suggestive...

Just like that, I forgot to be depressed.

I forgot to be woeful.

I only focused on the speed of my feet

the beating of my heart

the fear I could taste

as I frantically put more space between myself and them,

and less space between myself and home...


And now I will always remember to bring something sharp and pointy on my night-time walks. The leering and creepy men of the world will not deter me from enjoying the evening air; but they sure did remind me of my vulnerability when I am alone.

But just like that, I remembered to recognize the value of each day, and how I can't let another one mindlessly float away...

That there are vastly more important issues to focus on besides the lack of hormones in my brain...

8 comments:

Mark said...

There you go!
m.

Melisa Wells said...

Well that was quick. :) I'm glad. But you can still call me if you want. :)

Karen said...

Having a 75 pound black lab REALLY helps deter this behavior. I live in a major urban area and I've had even the sketchiest looking fellas cross the street when they see him!

*shhh don't tell but he's actually THE biggest chicken. LOL

Sorry you had such a bummer of a walk...some men will never grow up to be gentlemen.

Alexandra said...

I know.

I take my cellphone everywhere.

TAKE YOUR CELLPHONE.

AiringMyLaundry said...

Yeah, I'm with Empress, I always make sure to have my cell phone with me.

Or have my purse ready to swing at someone's head. There's a lot of stuff in there so it would hurt.

tracey.becker1@gmail.com said...

My dog is about 25 pounds and has that "come and play with me!" look about her. Not so great for scaring off the less-than-gentlemenly folks.

Kate Coveny Hood said...

I had a similar experience watching The Walking Dead. Decided that things could be infinitely worse. But at least my revelation came from a fictional story - not a personal moment of terror.

So glad you are safe. And less depressed :)

Deb said...

Oh my gosh. That is scary. Pepper spray?

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