I remember walking a few blocks as a youngster in San Francisco in the Sixties, and being cautioned by my grandfather to be careful, as ‘these [were] dangerous times’.
I miss him, but I’m also glad that he didn’t see how much more dangerous the times would become. One of my destinations was my first library- the branch library on 36th Avenue (IIRC) , between Geary and Anza streets.
Funny, the memories we all have of serious, but somehow. . .easier/safer times.
When quite small, I rode my tricycle 'into town' and with help; made it safely home. Later, spent many school years, walking to school and riding my bycycle. It was such a great feeling of independence and 'freedom'. Today, my daughter's children attend a school that is right in her neighborhood; a sneeze or two away from her doorstep. And while a 'safe neighborhood', the Mother's nontheless, accompany their children to school to insure their safe arrival.
Going it alone today, anywhere for a chid; is simply and sadly, not an option.
(And as of late; not even safe for the older 'chidren' as well; given the number of free for all abductions of young women in the past years. It has become almost 'sporting'. . .and and outrageous. in it's insanity.
Do wish Repubs would speak to this issue; pointing out that so often; we can thank a Liberal Judge for these perps even being on the street; while reminding them of the importance of not voting for those who will allow this 'new tradition' to continue.)