Disturbing & sinister "I just want to talk to you…"

[Ms Grace]

Something I don't think has been mentioned in this thread: never walk around talking on your cell phone, texting, or doing anything on an ipad or such. All these devices not only make you blind to what's going on around you -- they also make you even more of a target; these days, people are regularly mugged for their smartphones and tablets.

Same applies to walking around at night with headphones in, blaring music. They cut down your awareness of your surroundings, especially sounds that might alert you to an approaching mugger or predator.

Ah.. but what exactly is "rape"?  Is it just the brutal sexual assault or is it after a few drinks and an especially persistent guy that pressures you into doing something you didn't want too? It's not black and white...

James, despite a request from both Cindy and myself above that this thread not be derailed by rape culture discussion and the like, you persist. It is not helpful to the overall thread, please desist.

[Evelyn K]

Same applies to walking around at night with headphones in, blaring music. They cut down your awareness of your surroundings, especially sounds that might alert you to an approaching mugger or predator.

I actually like having the cellphone up to my ear if approached.

"CAN I HELP YOU? OR IS THERE SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SAY TO THE POLICE DISPATCHER?"

[JamesG]

James, despite a request from both Cindy and myself above that this thread not be derailed by rape culture discussion and the like, you persist. It is not helpful to the overall thread, please desist.

But, but ,but...Jess started it! 

(sheepish)  Yes, Ma'am.... (/sheepish)

[HoneyStrums]

I actually like having the cellphone up to my ear if approached.

"CAN I HELP YOU? OR IS THERE SOMETHING YOU WOULD LIKE TO SAY TO THE POLICE DISPATCHER?"

I do this too, I call people and let them know wear I am, when i get that feeling im being evaluated as a target. Even go so far as to request freinds send their bfs to meet me if Im that scared. But I think grace means those moments youre un-awear somthing is wrong/might go wrong.

[Jess42]

I apologize too Ms Grace but I do think that I gave some good advice to everyone about self defense classes though. Took one myself and got a lot out of it. If nothing else though just a little extra peace of mind.

[Evelyn K]

Thanks for the suggestion of the ultra bright mini torch, I think there's a place nearby that I can buy one.

Put one of these in your purse 







$2,000 but at least you can carry daylight with you in a can

[Ms Grace]

I apologize too Ms Grace but I do think that I gave some good advice to everyone about self defense classes though. Took one myself and got a lot out of it. If nothing else though just a little extra peace of mind.

No, you're right. Self defence classes are a good idea. I knew a martial arts teacher, nice guy, even he said the most important thing about self defence was being aware of the situation and one's surroundings. Gave me an example of how he verbally defused a potential mugging without resorting to threats of karate kicking their heads off!

[Valerie]

Ms Grace, good looorrrrrd, child!  My first thread after being gone awhile & you got my heart racing.

Glad you're alright.   I've been taking the bus now for over 4 years (not by choice) and during that time have come to feel more vulnerable than ever.  I'm careful who I talk to on the bus & how much I reveal if I converse publicly with a seemingly OK person.  Make sure no one follows me off the bus.  I have no local family so it's not like people would realize I missing right away.

Recently read about Kitestring, however, and plan to use it.

https://www.kitestring.io/

Stay safe, my good people!   ~V

[Ms Grace]

Thanks for that info about Kitestring, sounds like a great idea. I live in Australia though so might see if there is a local option.

[Rachel]

Sorry I am late to the thread. I am glad you are ok Grace, it must have been very scary.

I think your danger radar is definitely important. I think it is something we have as a survival instinct and need to trust it.

When I was in my teens I was walking the rail road tracks. I use to walk the tracks a lot and for miles. One day in the distance I saw figures. As I approached I saw 4 figures. I felt danger was ahead but kept going. Walking up to them my nerves were ringing, "get out of there". The guys were drunk and I got jumped and I still have a scar next to my right eye from a rock that was used to pound on me. It matches the top of my left eye. Point being it did not have to happen and I relied on my instincts more in the future. I still got jumped in the future but not because I saw or felt it coming.

You were very lucky; it would have been a terrible thing to have happen.

Your recent avatar, you are very cute, just saying