I was swiping my card to exit the U Street metro in DC, and a guy standing at the turnstile says, “Hey, why don’t you smile beautiful?” I kept walking but turned around to look at him as I walked away. I was speechless but I wanted him to know that I was watching him. It’s not okay to say things like that to strangers. This is why I wear sunglasses in public–I don’t want their attention!!
– SD
Location: U Street Metro, Washington, DC
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Gabrielle says
Men have said that to me countless times. I don’t understand–am I not allowed to walk around with a blank expression like everyone else? Do I OWE a smile to every man who crosses my path? Next time turn around and tell him that you don’t smile for assholes.
Judithica says
I recently blew-up at a guy over this. I began yelling about how he didn’t know the kind of day I’d had and how he had no right to expect me to be cheerful just so he can see a prettier world. I was kind of embarassed and walked away quickly, but I get that question a great deal and have mostly just smiled automatically.
Golden Silence says
Why would you feel embarrassed? No stranger has the right to tell you to smile!