Thursday, February 16, 2006

Close Encounter

On Monday, as I was walking to work, a man on a bike riding the other way asked me if I would give him some money, and if I was Mormon. "No," I answered, to both questions. As he rode away, I surmised that was the end of our conversation. But then he rode back and crossed to my side of the road to talk to me again. And this is where it got strange.

He said his name was Michael, that he likes making love (not his words, but perhaps you can imagine what they were), and he would like to have my number and/or know where I live. For those of you who don't know, Jamaicans are for the most part viciously and violently opposed to same sex relationships. In light of this fact, I told him that I was married and not interested in seeing other people ("I'm in a monogamous relationship, sorry"). All the time, I kept walking so that I would be closer to my workplace. Finally, he relented and rode off.

After speaking to others, and I tend to agree, I do not believe this was a mild-mannered offer of companionship. It may have indeed been a ruse to root out, and possibly act on, the liberal opinions of a non-Mormon Peace Corps Volunteer. I never felt in danger in this situation, but it is a good idea to be cautious out on the street. Sometimes it's best not to reveal your feelings; it can be a form of protection.

-Shane

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

Remember that you can always shove a stick between someone's bicycle spokes. That'd probably get them to leave you alone. It'd be just like the Nazi on the motorcycle in "The Last Crusade!"

Anonymous said...

Oh, I forgot to mention that you have to put it in the FRONT spokes, otherwise you'll just piss 'em off.