I Robbed the Robber

I visited New York City years ago. I was the sponsor for a group of girls from a Christian school. I was there teacher. We went before 9/11 but right after the first bomb attempt at the World Trade Center. We stayed at the World Trade Center Marriot. I had lived in Oklahoma for about 12 years and at first I felt intimidated. After being pushed and shoved a few too many times, my New York kicked in. The girls, who were all about seventeen years old, were shocked at my transformation. I walked harder and faster; I talked harsher, and I didn't take any you know what. I was in charge of nineteen girls, and I take my duties to them seriously.

We were walking outside of a Sheridan in Manhattan. One of my girls ran up to me to tell me that Katie was being robbed. I am all of 5 foot, but I ran. I screamed at this man who to me was a giant. He had my Katie terrified and backed into a wall.

The conversation went something like this.

Me: Let her alone!

He: Get outta here, Lady.

Me: What the hell do you want?

He: I want money, and your money will do me fine. Now, give it to me.

Me: You give me your money.

I think at that point everyone stopped breathing.

He: What are you nuts?

Me: You got it big guy. You give me your money.

He: (Grinned) I like you. What are you doing with these losers?

Me: I'm stuck teaching them how to deal with you. Besides they're just kids they don't have any money.

He: Then, what are doing standing outside the Sheridan?

Me: And where they hell are you standing?

He: You're cool. You're cool. I'll be leaving you alone.

Me: You better.

We shook hands and smiled nice and big, and walked away.