You know, I have no memories of catcalling women or sexually propositioning women. I know now that these things are wrong, but I didn’t always know that.
I used to think it was acceptable. Society and my peers taught me that. But for some reason, I’ve never done it.
Maybe it’s because I get uncomfortable around women in intimate situations, like if I’m sitting next to a woman and our knees touch. Or if we’re laughing about something and she touches my arm or leg. Or she hugs me as a hello.
I mean, if I can’t handle a woman touching my arm, I can’t imagine how I’d be able to handle a fling.
I had a girlfriend once who broke up with me after a week because I hadn’t kissed her yet.
Or maybe it’s because I’ve had adult women proposition me when I was younger.
The first time was when I was 14, and the receptionist at my orthodontist said it with a laugh. Because apparently it’s humorous to hit on someone who’s half your age and a minor.
The second time was when I was 18. It was a friend of my girlfriend’s mother, who I had agreed to drive home. She didn’t say it as a joke, but she *was* drunk.
In both instances, I was alone with these women, one in a waiting room and one in the front seat of my car. Both times, I had no idea how to respond, so I didn’t. I just kind of ignored it. And nothing more happened.
It was super weird. And super uncomfortable.
So, I don’t know. Maybe it’s because I know it’s wrong, or maybe it’s because I get so uncomfortable, or maybe because I know how it feels. Or maybe it’s all three.
