My morning got off to a rather weird start this morning, and I was wondering on how you would have reacted and how you’d handle it.
While walking from the bus stop to the office this morning, I decided to stop into a local McDonald’s. I had a book in my hand, but I was looking around rather vaguely to make sure I didn’t run into anything. A man who looked to be in his 60’s but full of life caught my eye and said broadly “Hello!” I kept my eyes moving, ignoring him, went to stand in line, and went back to my book (Mrs. Pollifax was in the process of escaping from the clutches of the villains). I was aware of someone who seemed like they were going to move across the line in front of me. When the person did so, it was that same man who’d said hello earlier. I don’t remember exactly what he said, but he stopped in front of me so I had to make eye contact and said something – about a 5 or 6 word sentence. I said “Sir, I don’t want to speak to you,” in a rather loud, fed up tone, and walked out. I was somewhat creeped out and not all that hungry. When I thought about it, I realized that I’m pretty sure this is the same man who, a few months ago, made a point of catching my eye and saying hello while I was walking down the street.
Now, I know this all sounds kind of petty, but when he was saying hello a few months ago, I didn’t see him doing so to anyone else. He could still be just a nice, friendly guy, but I feel like he’s trying to force me to pay attention to him. I’ve also had some problems with gentlemen over 60 not behaving like gentlemen in the past (ironically, while working at a McDonalds, among other instances), so there’s not a lot of trust to draw on.
Ladies, what would you do, and would you be disconcerted by this? Gentlemen, can you explain what he’s thinking? For that matter can anyone explain. If I’m paranoid, tell me so, and I’ll find a way to get over it. I don’t think he’s going to attack me, FWIW.
Just a couple of facts to allow for, I work right in the middle of a good-sized city, so there are quite a few homeless/oddball types around. They don’t bother me. Heck, there’s a saxophonist I’ll regularly give a dollar to. I’m also female, mid-30’s.
Thanks for your input,
CJ