A Quick PSA on Safety

For the last 15 years, I've made the daily trek downtown and certainly had my eyes opened to other, less-safe, areas of my City. (No that isn't an error...we are The City and therefore, we are the capital and; therefore, we do capitalize.) Anyway, back to my message...

For the last 2 1/2 years, I've worked in our Municipal Court. Prior to this employment adventure, I'd always felt pretty "safe." I live in a nice, gated suburban sub-division. It's not exactly a high-crime area. Even though I see criminals everyday, I don't spend a lot of time (and more importantly effort) in thinking about my own personal safety. On the whole, as big cities go, mine is relatively safe.

But, I've had a "there but by the grace of God" moment and I wanted to use this little forum to remind the friends that read my blog to be cautious. I won't get too specific about the incident leading to my revelation, but I want to share the impact.

I have a friend that was the victim of a horrible crime...a HORRIBLE, H.O.R.R.I.B.L.E. crime. She was doing something I've done a thousand times. Leaving the mall, walking to her car. She was in a hurry...she was texting on her phone. And, she is...lucky, very, very lucky to be alive.

She shared her very personal, very moving and inspirational story with me on Friday night. I don't think I could be that strong. I don't think I could ever bounce back. I'm thankful she is. I pray I never have to find out and I pray you won't either.

So, please...

1. Get your keys out of your purse. Have them in your hand. Don't walk and dig...

2. Survey the area before you exit the building.

3. Walk assertively, hold your head up---look around.

Pay attention to your surroundings. We'd never dream of not paying attention to our children as they walk through a mall parking lot, but often when we are by ourselves, we are not as diligent about assessing our environment.

Let's be careful out there!