DoomsdaysCWSo, when I was in my 30's back in the 1990's, I lived in Boston. Having been assaulted in high school (and having survived some other stuff that I won't get into here), I knew enough to wear long coats, always carry weapons (and know how to use them), and walk with a scowl on my face (not hard, since RBF is my default). I took risks -- walked alone, took shortcuts down alleyways -- but I always walked with a determined stride (not fast), and looked as though I was ready to kill someone (in my head, I was). I never got mugged or attacked -- unlike my friends who walked fast, were giggly or nervous, or wore revealing outfits. Very often, I was the one who escorted my friends (both male and female) home from the bar. It truly sucks that things have gotten worse for people (especially women and GBLTQ folks) instead of better. I've never had expectations of safety, but I can appreciate wanting a world where people can feel safe wherever they go. Until that happens, I will always look to defend those who are bullied and attacked. It's just who I am.