kingpinsqeezels
Ah hun, I don't think she meant much by it. I always get so excited when I see Orthodox people around town, not scared, just because I feel less alone. But the truth is, all that attire and quietness can be intimidating, especially towards people like me, who hate awkward silence and are CONSTANTLY talking. Truth is, if I saw you in the street, I'd smile at you and maybe say hello, but if I was in a room with you, I'd want to have a conversation and I'd want to talk about something. I would feel nervous if it was just someone contimplating something...Personally.
Well, to be fair, I don't have a beard and I do try to dress colorfully, or at least attractively. wink But if you smiled and waved, I'd smile and wave back, and if you struck up a conversation, I'd talk with you right back. If I were a man, or if you were a man, I might also do that, depending on the circumstances.
It's not that I take offense when people are made nervous by the Orthodox, it's just that it amuses and confuses me. In my experience, we're warm, welcoming, and friendly, unless the person approaching us has assault or missionizing on their agenda. When I see a Black Hat guy, or a woman who's dressed... well, like me... I always feel a little more comfortable and safe. I guess it's a matter of seeking out those we feel we have something in common with.
