Your favorite song can wait
I was out running today. I was fast. This route was flatter than yesterday’s, but I imagine it was more likely that I was thinking about the predator on the loose in our neighborhood.
Before you get too worried, let me explain. I received American University emails and our local ABC station reported about the situation yesterday. There have been 4 incidents of sexual assault a few blocks away from our apartment over the past few weeks. It’s probably the same guy. He’s preying on women walking by themselves.
I was out after dark for my regular run, not too concerned, but I did notice my pace was considerably faster as I neared the spot of the attack (it was actually had my fastest 3 mile time since February–maybe I was concerned). I made another observation tonight. I passed 3 women, walking or running by themselves, with headphones in their ears. The sidewalk was narrow when I ran by one of these ladies. It was obvious by her reaction that I startled her. She didn’t notice me until I was right next to her. Maybe she was oblivious to the news, maybe she’s just passionate about music, but I have 2 words of advice for my fellow runner: be careful. I know how motivating your favorite song can be when you’re chugging up the hills of DC, but after dark, please leave your iPod @ home. Trust me–you’ll be a whole lot safer and this 34 year old runner won’t raise your blood pressure either.
