I have to walk my dog every day.
There is a paved trail near my apartment complex. It runs along Johnson Creek from Portland to Gresham, where I live. It is scenic and wide, and can accommodate bicyclists, joggers, and casual dog walkers alike. It is not heavily traveled.
The last day I walked my dog on the trail was in March. We took our usual route and returned home. I did not see anyone. Later that day, the news reported a sexual assault. It was on the trail, in Gresham, on our usual route. It happened about an hour after I left; a young woman’s bicycle tire popped, and she flagged down the next cyclist she saw for assistance. Instead of assistance, however, he drew a knife and forced her into the woods nearby.
I carry a pocket knife when I walk, and I often wonder: would that have been enough?
Since I stopped using the trail, the dog and I have occasionally ventured down sidewalks in the neighborhood, never going further than four or five blocks. Usually at least one driver will honk as they pass, and the little hairs on the back of my neck stand up stiff as I imagine all of the reasons they could be reacting to me (and silently plead that none of them have to do with the astonishingly large population of White Supremacists in the area).
When the news reported the “random killing” last month at a 7-11 down the street, facts were scarce and confusing. However, recent updates emerged detailing the killer as a notorious prison gang leader and White Supremacist who ran down a black teen with little provocation (while his girlfriend cheered). It was no longer confusing; it was frighteningly familiar. It was a variation of what I imagine every time I hear those cars honk as they drive by.
I really wish this ended with some well-articulated point, but I’m just scared and emotional right now. My social media feeds are full of folks with open minds and kind hearts, but the real world is full of cold stares and tension, and my worst fears are constantly re-affirmed.
I’m obviously going to continue doing all I can to live life normally and contribute positively to society.
But those walks? They’re getting shorter and shorter.
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walk a bigger dog
But then MY dog would get offended ;)
Really, though, I AM considering throwing mace in my fanny pack as well.
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