A post which had been lingering in drafts for quite sometime..
During my routine walks around the nearby lake, today was as usual, but with one distinct difference: a new face. Among the familiar regulars, she stood out. A girl, seemingly new to the walking track, appeared quite nervous in this public space. Her fists were clenched, holding tightly to her jacket, her eyes focused on the ground just ahead of her feet, and she seemed watchful of her surroundings, often glancing through the corners of her eyes at those approaching from the opposite direction.
The walking path, adorned with trees, bushes, and greenery on both sides, encircles the entire lake, spanning roughly a kilometre. As I walked in the opposite direction, our paths crossed multiple times, and each encounter showcased her gradual evolution.
On our second crossing, she wasn’t clutching her jacket anymore; her hands were free, and her gaze had lifted slightly.
By our third encounter, her transformation was even more evident. She seemed more comfortable and confident, her head held high, eyes looking straight ahead, and her hands moved freely in rhythm with her stride. She seemed to be a free bird flying through.
Perhaps I’m overthinking or imagining a narrative that doesn’t exist. However, deep down, I sense that societal issues and the behavior of some men play a part in such anxieties. Rarely do I see men or boys exhibiting nervousness in public spaces. It’s heart-wrenching to think that her past experiences might have robbed her of the simple comfort of walking freely — an experience that we most men take for granted. The shadow of stalkers, teasers, or perverts looms large, causing unease in spaces that should be safe. In certain societies, it indeed feels like a privilege to be a man.
So, what’s the solution? How can we ensure women feel as safe and confident as men do in public places? There might not be straightforward answers. However, the onus is on us to foster the next generation with the principles of equality and respect. We must work towards a world where women are never perceived as vulnerable. It starts at home with simple things like not objectifying, giving respect, encouraging girls and many others which seem trivial yet effective. What do you think?