From the title of my blog, you may be thinking ‘where the bloody hell is she going with this…’
Well, this may be a bit deep but I feel really passionate about the importance of people understanding and appreciating everyone’s personal space. I never forget reading a newspaper article when I was in school about a young girl who got a boy done because he slapped her bottom. At the time I laughed and thought, ‘really? he only touched her bottom’ but now I look at it completely differently and I hope after reading this, you do too.
I think it is highly important to respect other people’s personal space. You never know how uncomfortable it might be for a person when you invade it. 3 years ago I went through a horrible time that I would never wish upon anyone! And the saddest thing is, it still affects me in my daily life now.
I remember when I got my confidence back, my friends and I went on a night out to Qube in town for a few drinks. When we left the club I was stood outside and a man grabbed my bottom. I got angry and he told me it wasn’t a big deal. However, I explained why I got angry at him and he couldn’t apologise enough.
The reason I got angry was that for 6 months I was stalked and sexually assaulted by one of my customers at work. I had reported his behaviour and it seemed to be brushed under the carpet. It messed with me mentally, as I was made to feel like I was in the wrong therefore I would allow him to treat me with disrespect. It was a horrible situation to be in. I never thought I would be so unconfident to allow someone to treat me like that. (Because if you know me, you’ll know I am not quiet and I always say what I think).
As a result of this, I had to go to crown court, have counselling, I lost 3 jobs altogether due to my anxiety and the fact I was scared to leave the house. It was horrendous. All because someone invaded my personal space and messed with my head.
Now, I still find it hard when men I don’t feel comfortable around flirt too much or try and get my attention in weird ways. I mean if I had never been through that horrible situation, I probably wouldn’t bat an eyelid to it. But now, I get creeped out by someone touching my bottom or even poking me on Facebook lol.
My message I wanted to get across through this blog is that please be wary of your actions. As god forbid, the person you are trying to approach has been through a situation like mine (or even worse!) This goes for males and females!
Everyone you know is fighting a battle. Be kind, always.
You are right. Everyone is going through something. Everything has a reason. I hope you can establish a sense of safety again and live a normal life. Best wishes.
LikeLiked by 1 person
You are so right! Thank you very much.
LikeLike
I went through an episode of feeling unsafe as well due to different reasons but I was able to get help through counselling and I am now at least 90% recovered. Things still cause me to feel unsafe but the anxiety has lessened and I am able to do the everyday things I am supposed to be able to do without feeling like my life is threatened.
LikeLike
I’m so sorry to hear that! Its great to know you are feeling better. Stay positive ❤ x
LikeLiked by 1 person
Thank you. You too ❤
LikeLike