So I went out in the crazy rain to Trader Joe’s last night. I am checking out at the register and notice a man behind me with a box of cereal and that’s all. Ok. I park a bit away from the busy lot as I always do. I prefer one section but it’s full so I parked 1 row over. It’s not as bright there. I walk slowly with my 2 bags while balancing my umbrella, pause to try to get my key to unlock the trunk and I hear a man’s voice behind me. It’s the cereal guy. “Hi.” Me: “OMG you scared me!” * I take a few steps back.” Him: “I just wanted to make sure you were ok. I saw you pause at the car.” *I’m scanning his face and trying to see if I recognize him but it’s hard with the lovely mask.* Me: “Oh that’s so nice of you. I’m all good, thanks!” Him: “Ok, well Merry Christmas.” Me: “Thank you. You too.” And I wait to see him walk clear across to the other parking lot. Being a woman, I’m always on my guard. I’m not paranoid, just cautious. I keep my head up, park in a lit area, have my key close by and ready to get in my car and lock the door when I get in the car. I also don’t dwindle too long sitting there. Never park next to a shady looking van. Always check inside your car before you get in. Etc., etc. Of course my Spidey senses were heightened. And the whole scenario was not ideal. I had no free hands to “fight” off anyone. It really sucks that I couldn’t immediately think he was just being a friendly citizen checking on another human being. This is the world we live in. All I pictured was Buffalo Bill dude throwing me in the car to make a body suit out of my skin But yea. I was too vulnerable in this moment. And I’ll make sure to make this a teachable moment for my son. Don’t approach a woman (or elderly person) in the dark in a storm with no one around. And cereal dude might have been just a nice guy who wanted to spread some kindness. I’ll never know.