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A subscriber to this newsletter requested her childhood story be passed along so that adults can remind children the importance of being aware of their surroundings.
I was lucky to grow up in a loving home where I felt protected because I knew that my Dad was a policeman! He raised us to be kind and help those in need. At the same time, he taught us that there were people who were up to no good. A common theme through the years was to be aware of our surroundings.
Growing up in a suburb of New York City, it was common to walk to school. There was no bus option if one lived within a mile. We were to walk quickly and with other children whenever possible. If someone pulled over in a car "to ask for directions", a chorus yelled "I don't know" as we hurried away. It was understood that this was a ploy to get us near the vehicle.
When I was in the third grade, my Dad gave me a coloring book. It was meant as a subtle lesson. I can still picture a little girl in her hat and coat standing next to a car. A man is holding a bag of candy as she is reaching for it. The next page, the car is driving away with her in the back seat. I learned that this was based on a true event. Dad didn't want me to be tricked. The candy tactic is still used to this day as is the puppy lure.
Some people will hang around a park or school several days so that they don't appear to be a stranger. Children will see them as belonging or familiar. When approached with the story "I lost my puppy by the bushes. Can you help me find it?", the child may oblige and disappear.
Children are naive even in this fast paced world. My Dad didn't scare me but made me wary. It prepared me for the day I was approached by a stranger. Too many children are abducted every year. Adults are not immune but that leaves me open to other stories.
Every conversation is confidential.
(518) 764-7595
info@tripidetectiveagency.com
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