June 10, 2009

• Mattie... the "tough" guy

  When I walk in my neighborhood at night, I always try to be aware of my surroundings and the people near me.  There is crime in my neighborhood.  It has all the issues one would expect in any large urban environment.  On the plus side, there's a lot of pedestrian traffic and cars / buses / streetcars so I'm not that worried.  I don't venture down side streets, cut across dimly lit parks or explore dark alleys.  But I do pay attention to my posture and how people may perceive me.  One of the things I've learned over time is not to look like a victim. 

  I walk with a sense of purpose even though I'm just unwinding.  My back is straight, my head is high and shoulders back.  I try not to walk with my hands in my pockets.  I never look down or walk hunched over as if I'm sad or lost in thought.  When people walk past me, I try to listen to their footsteps and make sure they are walking away.  I might glance behind discreetly or look for their shadows from the street lights.  Drunks are the worse and they are hard to predict especially if they are in packs.  Fortunately my area isn't near the clubs and aside from the odd drunk here and there - I've never had problems with them.

  As people approach my direction, sometimes they may look at me.  I'll look right back just to let them know I've noticed them.  But I don't glare at them.  This facade of toughness has served me well over time.  In reality, I don't know any self defense.  I have never been in a fight.  (ed note:  Matt punched a girl once when he was in Gr. 8.). 
  My only weapon is my "pen" - well - keyboard.  I can just see a mugging scene unfolding.  "If you're gonna rob me, you better think twice.  I'm going to write about you and it won't be flattering.  I have over a 100 subscribers now so get lost!" 

  So if you see some tough but funny looking dude walking at night.  It might be me.  But don't worry - I'm just a softie inside.  As for that girl in Gr. 8, she was bigger than me and was quite mean to me that day.  It wasn't a hard punch. 
  

  • 12:33 AM
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