These Empowering Stories Of Women Being Saved By Complete Strangers Will Restore Your Faith In Humanity
While some may disagree, most of us know that even in a civilized and wealthy Western society, it's not always easy to be a woman. We may have won the right to vote and work, but the never-ending stream of harassment, sexual assault, and belittlement can make life a lot more stressful than it needs to be. In recent years, we have seen major online movements like #MeToo highlighting just how widespread and problematic these issues are. However, sometimes to spread a powerful message and create real change, we must pause from all the stories about the bad things that have happened to us and instead reflect on how we can come together and overcome these dark obstacles. As Dr. Susan David, an emotional agility expert, states, "Courage is not the absence of fear, but the ability to act in spite of it" (source: susandavid.com). This sentiment resonates with the stories shared by women who were saved from assault attempts by complete strangers. The outpouring of these narratives serves as a reminder that while the world may get you down, there are good people out there who will stand up for what is right.
It all started on Tumblr...
Alexis's original post, which has since gone totally viral, being shared over 43,000 times, began by sharing three simple Tumblr posts. Like this one by Dr. Laura Berman, sex therapist, who emphasizes, "Women often find strength and support in each other during challenging times." This sentiment resonates deeply with the experiences shared in these stories. Dr. Kelly Brogan, psychiatrist, also notes, "Community and connection among women can be a powerful force for healing." Women need other women.
Alexis TylerLink Arms. Be Fierce. Don't Back Down.
Tumblr user ofgeography shared two separate encounters where someone else had to intervene for her safety.
Alexis TylerMMA or Not... Girl Power!
Don't ever assume someone doesn't need you.
Alexis Tyler
Facebook Chimes In...
It was from this moment that other Facebook users began to chime in, sharing their own harrowing tales of narrowly escaping assault.
Tara Davis was 23 years old when two random women intervened before tragedy could strike.
Alexis Tyler
Parking Lot Prowling...
Parking lots can prove especially creepy for vulnerable women, and a woman by herself with small children is a prime target for predators. Yet, as Ashlie Redd shows us with her story, it doesn't take a male bodybuilder to be your bodyguard. Even a polite elderly woman can make a world of difference in keeping someone like Ashlie safe!
Alexis Tyler
One of My Recent Ones...
Some of us have no shortage of stories to share, but we are sure glad Michelle is here to share hers.
Alexis Tyler
Driving Is Not a Mode of Flirtation...
Apparently, not everyone understands car body language...?
Alexis Tyler
Predatory Prowlers
Describing two or more men circling a lone woman like sharks is no exaggeration; most of us have seen it at least once. Thank goodness for Gail!
Alexis Tyler
Just Another Good Citizen.
Waitresses and bartenders leaving in the wee hours of the morning while a bunch of drunk idiots may be nearby can be incredibly vulnerable to assault attempts. Sometimes, one good citizen really makes a powerful impact. Thanks for being a good dude, Joseph.
Alexis Tyler
It's Not Just Sexual Assault That's a Problem.
Sometimes, the little old lady just needs a friend, too, to keep her safe while she waits.
Alexis Tyler
It's clear that it is up to us to be a community of strength for each other.
