It seems men have done an excellent job of telling women to “make nice”.

As a man I sometimes pass a woman at a door way or in a crowded hall. When the encounter comes close, just simply due to the physical conditions, the woman frequently says “Oh … Sorry” as if being present in the same space needed an apology. It is rarely about bumping or impeding the flow of traffic.

Sometimes I will point out that they did not need to apologize for just being present in the same space as me. If they seem engaged I will point out that women seem to apologize at such moments much more than a men. Some smile and move on but occasionally I will see a very a thoughtful flash come across their face. My hope would be that somehow they reflect on their “reflex action” and maybe understand that to “make nice” does not always mean saying “Oh … Sorry” as if they are to blame for just existing in that physical space at that moment.

This rarely happens in a “no harm, no foul” situation with a man in the same halls and doorways. Generally they smile and act nice but without an apology.

I really admire women who can stand their ground.

You go Greta, and Malala, and Emma, and Hilde, and …