day SIX HUNDRED and EIGHTY

The Danger of Alone

When I get into my car alone at night
I check behind all the seats
open up the back
peer into the most unlikely of places
to make sure no one’s
hiding inside

When I run alone
I take note of my surroundings
cars parked and abandoned
men milling about
where I am at all times
a hand on my phone for quick retrieval

When I am home alone
every light is left
blazing

And when I’m exhausted
by the measure to which
I must go to remain safe,
I remember:
I’d rather be safe than
assaulted raped dead

- Rachel Toalson