The other day, I went to the market to buy okra. I think the hype about okra’s health benefits on social media was growing. I don’t like going to the market because it’s not always a pleasant experience for me. Before I knew it, someone accidentally stepped on my toe. Ouch! My poor toe – I had already hurt the same toe the day before while cleaning the house.
“Walk faster woman.” That was not polite, right?
“Ma’am, I have the latest design in town,” he tried to woo me in a manner that disgusted me.
Worse still his hat made him look like a clown. I gave him a sharp stare, then withdrew my hand quickly.
“Hey, don’t be so arrogant. I know you haven’t been tested for HIV,” he said with a loud laugh.
His statement baffled me. I walked past him with an attitude that suggested I didn’t take his words seriously.”
All this time, I had safely tucked my Samsung S24 Ultra into the waistband of my skirt. I also had my purse tucked in on the left side. The atmosphere of the market filled me with fear. As I entered the market, I bought some sandals from the first vendor to relieve my feet after a long day at work. I knew I needed to be well-prepared for the hectic market environment. Suddenly, a guy hit me with a heavy load. Although he didn’t say anything, his whistle served as a warning before he quickly moved away.
“Can you model somewhere else?” The remarks came from a nearby vendor. Damn, this was enough for a crazy Monday. The market was packed to the brim. I wished I could step aside and watch the whole market madness from a distance. At this point, I only needed to make several turns to reach where the Okra vendors were located. Sadly, I was losing hope of ever getting there.
It was a great relief when I finally reached the market exit. However, I had one more interaction with the guy who had carried my shopping bag. I reached for my purse and handed him Ksh 50.
“Why do you act so mean, ma’am?” His remarks followed me as I crossed the road.
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