WHENEVER I have read about violent acts in the paper I

always assumed them to be late at night by young men

fuelled by drink. I now know how wrong an assumption

that is, after having been verbally abused and physically

attacked myself. On a bright sunny afternoon. In a busy

street. By a woman with her young child.

The provocation? Daring to challenge her use of foul

language against her son.

Along with other pedestrians, I was shocked to see her

marching her young son along the road shouting at the

top of her voice using foul language. A gentleman and I

exchanged looks and commented that it was no wonder

that youngsters grew up to be violent if that's how they're

treated, upon which her foul mouth turned on me and she

grabbed me and hit me. To say I was stunned is an

understatement and although I was not hurt I can still see

her little boy's face, looking on impassively.

I guess, sadly, he's used to this sort of behaviour and can

only wonder what he is subjected to out of sight of the

general public.

But we should not be afraid to express our distaste at the

use of foul language. Although it seems to have become

an accepted part of everyday language, it is NOT

acceptable.

Name and address withheld