Sam,

I agree that there is something particularly shocking about receiving such abuse from a stranger. With someone I know there is some idea of worth, there is a weighing involved, based on actions and scenarios, but with a stranger the guard is down. The attack is sudden and thoughtless, and barely discriminating...like a drive-by shooting. Logically this should make the attack nearly inconsequential...I think it usually does. But in this case I couldn't help but see a man who saw others as nothing, and it made me feel more distant from the world in a time I need to feel strong and supported. I am just a bit tired.

Empathy is perfect, thank you.

Dagmar