I was out doing my regular morning walk when I walked into a rights rally. It was a sizable crowd and the police held the people back behind the crowd control barriers. It was a peaceful gathering and the police had a quiet time and watched the crowd hold a short program. There was no confrontation between them and the group. After several short speeches by the leaders, the crowd quietly walked away and dispersed.

I was once a victim of mugging. A few years back, while walking to the train station. I was accosted by a man who poked a knife in my side and demanded I hand over my wallet and phone. Without nothing to protect myself, I hesitantly handed over my belongings. In hindsight, I should have followed a friend's advice that I carry a pepper spray or mace. Shaken and traumatized, I wasn't able to report the incident to the police.

The very next day, I went over to the shop that sells stun guns and other security devices. I told myself that I would never be a victim again. As incidents of street crime rises, it is wise to have something to defend yourself from these criminals. At least now, I feel safer knowing that I can somehow defend myself.