Stand up

I've been holding off on telling this story over the weekend because I wouldn't sure what sort of attention it would bring, but as I think more and more about I think it really is a lesson everyone can take note from.



I am generally pretty aware of my surroundings. I'd consider myself a decent multi-tasker. I'm pretty good at doing many things at once. On this particular day I was grocery shopping and catching up on phone calls with some of my best friends. I'm guessing I'm not the only one who does this?

As I made my way around the store, I was laughing, telling stories and really into the conversation with my friend. For some reason I kept noticing this guy only a few steps behind me. Older, holding a basket but, oddly, there was nothing in it. Yet, he had been in the store for just as long as I had.

Odd, yes. But at this point seemingly harmless.

My conversation ends and I finish getting everything on my list (plus a few impulse items). As I make my way toward one of the check out lines I notice that same man gets in line right behind me. Feeling very unsettled, I pretend I forget something and make my way to the wine section. Guess who gets right behind me? Literally no more than 10 steps behind. Of course my heart starts beating faster as I think about what exactly he's doing. I really have no idea.

So I get in line again and I try to wedge myself in between other customers, but he some how finds his way RIGHT behind me. As I push my cart to one side and step to the other, I just wait. Then, I notice exactly what he's been doing this whole time.

The man squats down, pretending as if he is reaching for an item on the bottom shelf, and in the process sticks his camera phone right underneath me.

It makes me sick to even write this down, but I wouldn't tell you a lie. Not about something like this.

So what I did next is what I really want to tell you about. Just as soon as I notice what he's doing I yell, "Are you taking pictures up my dress?!" The man stands up and fumbles for words (pretending like he doesn't understand what I'm saying). I yell again, "You have been following me around this store, have you been taking pictures of me this whole time? Let me see your phone!"

At this point the whole store is staring in my direction. I am shaking. And the man puts his empty basket down and takes off out of the store.

Disturbing? Yes. Lesson learned? Definitely.

What I want you to know about this really strange story is that I had this weird feeling as I noticed him following me. Something didn't feel right, and I knew it. So I spoke up. Very loudly, yes. I don't know if you have ever been in a situation like this or just any situation that makes you feel the slight bit uncomfortable... but I want you to know it's okay to say something.

As I left the store I honestly felt like people were judging me for accusing this guy of what he did. I honestly did not care ONE bit. You see, I take pictures of myself ALL the time. I take so many pictures of myself it's obnoxious. But that is MY right. I choose when my picture is taken. So when someone tries to violate my right, I will absolutely speak up every. single. time.








How's that for a story?

Needless to say I was pretty shaken up for the whole day. Threw me off my game. Looking back I know I should been a little more aware of my surroundings but that does not mean I could have avoided this situation. I'm sure there's many more people like this man that get their kicks from things I don't even want to think about.

Regardless, I'm pretty proud I stood up to him. If nothing else, I hope I can inspire you to confront those uncomfortable situations.

Outfit Details

Piko Tunic- c/o Shop Riffraff
Frye Boots- Fringe and Fray
Bracelets- Alex and Ani
Necklace- I made it! At the Chelsea Market
Purse- Liebeskind

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