Sometimes I respond to a street harassment incident in anger, sometimes with humor and a whole lot of sass. However, recently I’ve started handing handwritten notes to cat-callers in which I try to come from a positive, uplifting angle. I simply hand it to them and walk away, feeling good about handling my response in a civilized way and still “speaking my mind.” Here’s an example of my feelings in this letter:
Dear Friend,
I am a human being just like you. I have a family and work very hard, struggling to support myself. I am a teacher and work very hard to raise conscious, respectful, and kind children, who are the hope for our next generation. I do not deserve to be cat called (street harassed) by you. It is disrespectful and no person deserves it. I hope one day you will learn that respect for all the people of the earth is the only way we can grow and evolve as a community and a human family.
Animals react with instincts. They often do not think with a higher brain, they just do what they want; they do what their bodies tell them. Humans are different than animals because they have the ability to control their actions and make more conscious decisions. We are more evolved. Without respect, self control, and without forethought, we are simply just animals.
I hope that you will do your part and remember that you are capable of rising above the behavior that you just showed me. You may think that it’s not a big deal, but it is a huge deal. You can be a better human being than that. You are not an animal who just reacts without thinking and without using your highly developed brain. The minerals and compounds in your body are remnants from stars that collided with our planet billions of years ago. Your mind, spirit, and actions can be used for goodness, respect, kindness, and mindfulness. You are important, precious, and unique to the world. Do not underestimate your power to rise above!
Help change our world. Most people in our world have been overcome with a deep and deluded sickness of not caring, of not thinking, and reacting with a “lower brain.” Blindness to the suffering of others is a disease that we need to overcome. Do the right, human thing. Disrespecting women by calling out to them on the street is not a human thing to do. It is not using your “higher brain.” I am confident that you can and will realize this someday, because you are human, and I believe that you are capable of “having a heart” and being the evolved being that you truly are.
Blessings, respect, and honor to you Friend. Good luck on your journey and may you bring happiness and good, positive things to others in your lifetime.
Life is short – live well, and lead with love and care.
Humbly and With Deep Respect,
Your Sister in Humanity
– Alodiah in San Francisco, CA
