Recently, the hashtag #nowomanever trended on Twitter. With this hashtag, women shared their infuriating experiences with street harassment and catcalling. Hashtags like that one are important because they foster a much needed dialogue and make some men aware of the effect of their behaviour on women.
That said, I wanted to bring up some positivity by praising men who act like gentlemen, because yes, they do exist. I had a great experience at the supermarket today that I want to share with you. As I was passing by a young man, I could feel his eyes on me. He didn’t come close to me and invade my space. He simply said: “Excuse me. Could I pay you a compliment?” to which I replied in the affirmative. He then said “I think that you are really pretty and I love your style.” I gave him a big smile and said: “Well than you! Have a nice day!”
That was it. He simply smiled back and we each went our ways. He didn’t ask me for my phone number. He didn’t ask me for a date. Just a guy paying a sincere compliment to a woman. I left with a little bounce in my step, and I’m only speculating here, but he probably left with the contentment you feel when you know that you just made someone happy.
And that was not the first time either. I mean, of course, I’ve experienced catcalling, learing and street harassment in my life. I’ve had a stranger followed me from one feet behind me, calling me degrading names and telling me what bitches like me deserved. But I’ve had positive experiences also and they are worth mentioning. I’ve had an older man once approach me at the supermarket (what is it with supermarkets?), simply telling me with a smile, before going his way: “I just want to tell you that you are absolutely superb”. Superb! That’s the word he used! Now that’s a compliment that you don’t forget.
So just a little post to praise all the well-mannered men out there who treat women with respect. Thank you.
