I just cannot bring myself to step into the gutter or wait patiently behind a shrubbery. Why should I have to stop when I just need a sliver of sidewalk and they are using the whole damn thing? Be aware of your surroundings and have some courtesy for crying out loud. I mean, really.
I am a big guy and when in a foul mood I have been known to drop a shoulder and plow right on through, but that does not seem to be a viable long term solution. There is too much possibility for escalation and unwanted consequences. Plus, it may feel good for a brief moment, but I will inevitably feel like a jerk later.
Recently I have tried stopping in my tracks when they get about 10 feet away and then saying "look out" in a firm but non-hostile voice when they get within a few feet without changing course. Surprisingly, more than half of the time someone still walks right into me. They sometimes even tell me to watch out after walking into me while I am standing still. This standing still strategy is not working out.
Maybe a different kind of noise would help. I could ring a bell or honk a horn or spray them with mace, but I don't really think carrying these items around with me at all times is very practical. I have been considering trying out a Road Runner "meep meep." I need to work on it though since I have a low voice. I could try loading it one of those little handheld playback devices. I already have one that plays several Mr. T catch phrases like "I pity the fool" and "Stop your jibber jabber." I could attach it to my key chain and give a try. It might not be loud enough though. I could shout out, "Hey dillweed, get out of my fracking way!" or start barking like dog, but these could have similar consequences to going linebacker.
I don't see myself moving into a Ted Kaczynski cabin in the woods any time soon, so I am seeking feedback, constructive or otherwise.
