Dear Unguy, sorry you are feeling bullied. I don't want you to be bullied but I also want to point out that attacking someone with a magic marker or any weapon is an aggressive act for which you could be prosecuted. I am concerned enough to offer some suggestions which are non violent.
You said:
Quote:
|
hey stand in the middle of the sidewalk to take a cell phone call or to text and, if you say "you're blocking the sidewalk (or stairs)" they respond "walk around me."
|
Okay if I am driving a car and I come upon a pedestrian or another car, I drive around them. Same thing applies when I am walking. I try to skirt obstacles or people by a couple feet if possible. If they slow me down, that is one of the prices of living in a big city.
If someone shoulder bumps you, whether they did it on purpose or not, and you attack them, you will be seen as the aggressor. It does not matter if it is a woman or man. Black markers are an attack also.
The philosophy of yielding to force and not absorbing it or reacting to it has dominated many martial arts. It can also be applied to crowded situations where one does not react and avoids a potential conflict.
I do not see that your life is being threatened. You may think it should not happen and you may be right, but defending your dignity went out when men stopped dueling.
When I have fought back at bullies they only fought the harder. Avoiding conflict is the wisest path in my eyes. That can mean swallowing pride and avoiding arguments. It isn't easy, but others are just as ticked off as you appear to be. Many are living near the edge of poverty and survival. They are like a tinder box ready to explode with a little match. Seeing things from their point of view may avoid conflict.