I walked home.

I could not bear the intrusion of other people,their questioning eyes. And I could cry. I cried all the way home. Now and then a passer-by would look at me,sometimes just for a brief moment I could see the compassion,the pity.I wanted neither.I just wanted to be left alone. About two months ago there was a young girl sitting on a wall,crying, as I was coming home with coffee and croissants. Are you all right,I asked. Yes, thank you,she replied. I walked on. After a few steps I turned back. You cannot be all right if you are crying. I live just here,in the house next to he builders, do not be afraid of me.Tell me why you are crying. With tears streaming she told me how she was canvassing on behalf of a charity and was pushed purposely and violently by a man. I am just trying to help,why are people so nasty,she asked. Oh,sweetheart,you have kind heart, but you must and will learn that sometimes people are nasty and you have to deal with it.It's either that or never doing anything kind for any-one. And what would you rather do? Be kind, she answered. Here,have my croissants, they will help you feel better,they are really good. She would not accept them,but I insisted. When in front of my house I turned,smiled and waived,she smiled, waved back, munching happily.