Mom wasn't really being overprotective

Last week I was cycling in Gateway Park and stopped on the side of the path to take a short break.

A little girl, who was about 4, was playing nearby. When she saw me, she waved, said “hi” and started to approach me.

Her mother, who was a few feet behind her, walked hurriedly but calmly to her daughter's side and said, “Honey, come here. We talk only to friends, remember?”

At first, I felt hurt and insulted. “Why couldn't I be her daughter's friend?” I asked myself.

Then I made a jarring realization: I could be considered a possible predator.

Wow! I never saw myself in that light. It was eye-opening and depressing.

But the more I thought about it, the more I appreciated the mom's concern for her daughter. She was watching her precious baby like a ferocious mama bear.

Her vigilance is admirable. The world would be a better place if we had more moms like her.