R.A.D.I.C.A.L. Thoughts

"Parking garages rank third among top locations for violent crime (after homes and public streets)." From BE SAFE - Simple Strategies for Death-Free Living by Melissa Heckscher

Now that my last child is off on his own, I feel this urge to tell someone to "Drive Carefully. Drink plenty of fluids. Eat Breakfast." etc. etc. etc." One of the things about a midlife divorce is that often you are living alone, and there is no one around who cares whether you eat your broccoli or not. That's one of those little things that made me sad. The first time I went on a trip by myself, and I realized I had no one to call to say I got there okay, that realization was significant to me. And I cried about it. I could have called my kids, and they often checked up on me as did other family member and friends, but if you are living alone, it's an adjustment to realize that you are pretty much on your own for that stuff. Personal safety is our responsibility, individually, anyway. We know what we're supposed to do, but it takes getting used to not having anyone there to remind you. There is a definite realization in this divorce recovery process that you are responsible for yourself. That's okay. In fact, that can be very empowering. You can do that most of the time, however do put in place a friend or family member that you can call for real emergencies and for just plain old reassurance. Anyway, I came across the little book above at a Half-Price book store. It is chock full of things like: "what is the safest: Seat on a plane; lane on a highway, color of car, way to defrost meat, seat at a concert" etc. Just to let you know the safest place to park in a parking garage is "on the ground floor near the attendant." Note: elevators and stairs are the most dangerous spots in a garage. I was robbed in a parking garage last year, so I guess this advice stood out. But just for your information the safest stall in a public restroom is the first one. (It is least used and usually has more toilet paper.) Also, the safest color of car to drive is yellow or lime green. Anyway, I could go on and on. I just wanted to tell you today to be aware of safety, especially now. At our last boot camp a Self-Defense expert talked on personal safety ... how to keep from becoming a victim. Just be alert and be on your toes. Think pro-actively, and, by the way drink enough water and eat your veggies, too. If you have any safety questions of your own, just e-mail me at suzysuccess@kc.rr.com and I'll see if there is anything about it in this handy little book!

"Yes, be bold and strong! Banish fear and doubt! For remember, the Lord your God is with you wherever you go." ~ Joshua 1:9 (The Living Bible)