I avoid eye contact
Maybe if I don’t look at him
He won’t see me, and if he doesn’t see me
He can’t hurt me
I avoid sitting too close on the bus
Maybe if I’m not too close
I won’t entice
I avoid a friendly and polite smile
Maybe if I don’t smile
He won’t tell people that I asked for it
I avoid walking on the same side of the street
Maybe if I am a distance away
I’ll have a chance if I run
I avoid asking for help
Maybe if I come across as strong and capable
I won’t seem like an easy target
I avoid saying hello
Maybe if he doesn’t hear my voice
He won’t imagine what I sound like screaming
I avoid going out at night
Maybe the light of day will keep me safe
I avoid being alone with him
in the hopes that a witness will be able to
tell my story
I avoid him at all costs
Maybe I keep to myself
I’ll live another day
