"Don't go Alone"

"Don't go alone"
A reminder of the stark reality
I'm 5'1
Latina
And look half my age.

Walking down the street I'm always sure to look around
Notice the cars
Notice the people
Is anyone too close?
Eyes peeled, ears attentive
Always ready
Always waiting
Always have a plan
Yell fire, it will get attention faster- or so they say
Living like this
Day by day

We are all taught precautions for- "Just in Case"
Learn to fight
Learn to get away
Learn to scream and shout
Weight lift
Wear comfortable shoes- for running away

Not too short
Not too long
No, that's too cute
Wait, come back Don't wear that
Remember, never give anyone an excuse

They always ask-
"What was she doing alone"
"Well, She was wearing shorts"
"Well, was she drinking?"
Why does it matter?
She is human

Funny how You know what I am talking about
Without having to even spell it out
What a sad reality