When I was pregnant with my first born 14 years ago, I lived in Baltimore. There are certain areas there where I was told not to go after dark and definitely don’t go alone. I was caught at a mall in one of these areas once, going Christmas shopping. Now usually I don’t scare easily, but being eight months along, I guess I began to be concerned about safety for my baby.

I went during the afternoon, but didn’t end up finishing up until after dark. I wasn’t aware of my surroundings until I was about ready to leave, then suddenly I noticed I was the only visible female around and it seemed that most of the people were teenagers and young men. Anyway, after resting for a moment on one of the benches, I got up and started for the exit to the parking lot.

I was ultra sensitive to everyone around, so much so that I heard hurried footsteps coming from behind me. I turned and saw two boys running towards me, one looked to be about 12, the other a couple years older. I almost panicked but kept pace to get to the door. The boys rushed past me, headed straight for the door that I was about to go out of, but the door remained opened for some strange reason… Those two boys were rushing to get ahead of the pregnant woman they saw, to hold open the door.

I sat in the parking lot and cried in my car for at least half an hour; I had so many emotions running through me, embarrassment, adoration, anger, shock, pride and regret. I still can’t tell people (about this) without getting choked up a little.

Anyway, I learned and it has stuck with me, even up to now. People will surprise you, if you allow them to.