Talking with others as a self-defense instructor, the hesitant statement-as-question often comes up: “I run by myself. …?” The question mark at the end of the sentence and looking down and then up at me tells me that they are waiting to be chastised for being so brazen. Other people hear what I do at IMPACT and expound on the dangers of the world, remarking incredulously that they have friends who dare to go hiking – and sometimes hiking alone!
Let me tell you something: It is your divine human right as an animal on this earth to walk, run, hike, or generally leave your house. It is also, of course, your right to stay on your sofa if it’s comfy or at your desk and read this article!
But this is a crucial point. If you didn’t hear me the first time: Feeling safe to wander the earth is a human right. It is not a privilege only to be afforded to men (though they do not always feel safe either.) It is not something only for the privileged. It is not a women’s rights issue. You have a right to feel safe going out and doing what you love. And you can! If you wonder what you might do in a given situation, take a personal safety class. But please don’t question whether you should do what you love. Because you should do what makes you feel good!