Speak Up! by Song Channel Music published on 2015-10-12T18:35:12Z I went to church yesterday. I walked out of the bathroom and was greeted by a man, sitting in a chair, who acted like we knew each other. He was very friendly. I didn't recognize him, but thought he knew me from going to services, as he asked where I'd been recently. I was friendly and reserved with him. Next to him sat another man. They were both in their 50's or 60's. He didn't say much, but as I talked with this other man for a few moments, I watched as his friend kept a straight stare at my crotch. Literally, I don't think he looked up much. As I stood there, feeling more and more uncomfortable, I tried to shift my posture slightly, thinking that maybe the way the light was hitting me he could see through the rayon fabric of the pants I was wearing. Even though I did, he kept on staring. As I walked away I felt pissed. I felt angry. I felt uncomfortable. I felt shame. I felt silenced by his stare, like I couldn't say anything about it because that would be rude. And, what if it was me? What if I was the culprit, wearing something that was "too see through," even though I was fully dressed, modestly. Enough is enough, I thought last night, as I thought about the experience and still felt angry about not speaking up. The words staring coming out of me, "Speak up, speak up," and I knew I had to grab the recorder and get this one in! I mean, I come to church and I'm looked at this way by a grown man? I know I can't control how everyone looks at me, but in the least, I am asking you to offer me the respect of looking me in the eyes and greeting me there instead of staring at my lady parts or the area of my body where they live trying to catch a glimpse. Please and thank you! Sarah Haykel Genre sarah haykel