Is it being rude or just protecting yourself?

I'm quite conflicted with what I am about to say.

I was always taught to be nice to your fellow brothers and sisters....for you never know when the person you are helping, consoling, or feeding is really Jesus Christ.

Over the last few weeks I've run into a few overbearing, prying, intrusive people.

At first, I really tried being nice but it appears they are heading toward the label of being 'stalkers.' And now, though I still want to be Christian, I am going to put up a wall, be aloof, and downright rude if necessary. It looks like this 'new attitude' is the only way to protect myself and retain my sanity.

You will never guess where I've come across these people? CHURCH! That's right, CHURCH!


And unfortunately, I think I've said too much to them already.


These encounters were quite uncomfortable.


After morning Mass one day for Mom, one of the men proceeded to berate me about my future, my beliefs on marriage, and anything else he could say to upset me--all of this standing in the middle of the Church right before God. His African background and accompanying beliefs apparently differ from mine and the way I was raised. But what really gets me is two-fold: apparently, the meaning of that morning's Mass went right over his head and he does not respect other's opinions.


Then a few days later, the same man walked up to me, asked me where I worked --unfortunately I told him and he just walked away. He did not say, 'Oh, that's interesting!' He said nothing to further the conversation. He just walked away. What is up with that?!?!?!


The other man said he enjoys listening to the choir sing, especially me, and even moved up right next to us. Tho at first glance, that sounds flattering, the questions he asked at Church this weekend outright frightened me. Fortunately, another lady in choir was a witness, saw how upset I was getting and hopefully will back me up if she ever sees him again or report this to others.


It's really an awful feeling.


One place where I used to feel so safe, so secure, and in my element singing and praising God with the gift He gave me has been stolen away from me as I dread seeing these two rude men at Church now. They make me feel like I don't want to share my talents to the fullest because I feel the need to avoid them.


Quite a predicament. I know my family and friends will help protect & guide me in these situations, but hopefully, God, Jesus, Mary, Joseph and Mom will also help me and watch over me acting as my guardian angels.