I cross this street twice a day, several times a week. It is the street that I cross to get to the gym. It's the street that takes me to my favorite downtown lunch spot. It's a popular corner.
I've seen people jog across. Kids have crossed on their way to and from school. People cross dragged by their dog or spouse. I've jaywalked across this street more than I care to count. And, I've maneuvered my way across this street while Clevelanders watched a parade go by. This street even appears in a few movies. It can look very New York.
At lunchtime, this crosswalk can get crowded. There are those who don't pay attention to the signs. There are those in a hurry who risk getting hit by cars who have the right of way. There are people who smile when they pass. And, there are even people who glare past you while sharing space between these lines.
Keep in mind that the true measure of an individual is how he treats a person who can do him absolutely no good. - Ann Landers
For the most part, this is a nice quick walk. While the crosswalk can get crowded, I sometimes feel invisible. Funny how easy it is to hide in a crowd of people.
This is not a New York crowded street. Plenty of room to allow others to pass. All too often there will be a group of white guys in suits that insist walking four deep. I would move out of their way.
And then it dawned on me, I didn't have to move.
Why am I accommodating these rude men?
I make them move for me now.
I get satisfaction when my gym bag hits them.
Yes, I know this is lost on them. But, this is not about changing their actions. This is about changing mine. Standing up for myself and not letting anyone push me out of the crosswalk.
