Elder power: Doing it the TR way

TR in 1883   (Public Domain)

“Rough and ready” Teddy Roosevelt had a number of memorable quotes.  Among the most popular is this:   Speak softly and carry a big stick.

Heroine Fusako Petrus did just that.  The 86-year-old resident of North Highlands, California went walking routinely around the high school track.  When neighbors cautioned her regarding safety, she would reply:  I’ve got a friend who goes with me.  And I've got a stick. 

While they were recently out walking together, Petrus’ 61-year-old friend was sexually assaulted.  Petrus could have easily escaped unharmed, but chose to instead use that stick.  The attacker then turned on Petrus, giving her friend an opportunity to run for help.

But it was too late for Petrus.  She died after being brutally kicked in the head.  A neighbor memorialized her with these words:  She’d help anybody.

Resources

http://www.msn.com/en-us/news/crime/friends-hail-woman-86-killed-trying-to-stop-attack-as-hero/ar-BBAupZY?li=BBnb7Kz&ocid=BHEA000

Copyright April 30, 2017 by Linda Van Slyke   All Rights Reserved