I figure I've gotta watch people's feet rather than their lips.
Feet don't lie. It's the doin' that's the real scoop.

As for us being targets, let me toss my ripped aura (personal energy field) hypothesis out for your examination:

When we're born, we depend on our environment (family) to reveal (establish) our place in the whole. If we are treated as whole worthy precious little beings, we build up an expectation of that that surrounds us, and can be felt by others.
When our preciousness is violated, it puts a tear in our aura, (our sense of self) and our vulerability leaks out.
Predators are very sensitive to this leaking energy and vampire right in, creating a bigger hole. On and on until we find a time and place of safety in which to repair ourselves.

I read an article recently on the difference between liars and bullsh---ers. Liars lie for a reason adn are aware that they're lying, bullslingers on the other hand, just sling to feel in control in the moment, no attachment at all to what they say, will turn around and deny they just said whatever five minutes later. Will do whatever they want to do regardless of what they said they'd do. It's all about them in whatever moment they are. My landlady is classic narcissistic personality and would be amazing to watch in action if I were just watching --I haven't been able to sit down since I got here..... 3 years ago.

Culturally speaking, who is held accountable anymore? Who is a role model for holding themselves accountable for their actions? Lately, seems like the more people you tromp on the more "goodies" you get. Very shallow existance in my book.

As I've worked on bulding up my personal boundaries, my reading of people's intent is also improved. And, the more I have of myself, the less needy and vulnerable I am, so I don't put up with much bullpucky. The vibe gets out there, each time I take care of myself, the safety net around me is strengthened.

I am very grateful for the few, the honest, the brave, who I can call Friend,