Being a female in society has its perks, but in a lot of ways, there are things we can't really do alone. In light of the recent murders of female joggers all over the country, I have truly started reevaluating my daily jog.

I now feel it is truly impossible for me to enjoy running without the constant fear of being attacked. I ask my parents to drive next to me on parts of my routes that I know don't have service. I always have to run with my phone. I find myself asking people I haven't talked to in years to run with me. I think that, with a partner, all of the harassment will stop. The constant car horns, the catcalling out the windows of cars and houses, and the staring never stop. No matter who you are with, where you are or how fast you're going, these people will always be around. You can move far away or stay close to home, but there are people like this everywhere.

I constantly find myself checking over my shoulder and steering clear of woods because of what is happening in our country. It hurts me to think that I have to change what I love most for fear I literally could be KILLED. It hurts me to think that I have to change everything to enjoy an easy 5 mile run in my small town. Because now, places where things have never happened before are fearing the worst.

I know it's not right to think like this. To live in constant fear, but at this point...I, personally, can't help it. I want to be able live my life. I want to be able to go for runs without the possibility of being hurt by anything other than my own clumsiness.

So if you're a runner, male or female, be safe out there. Carry your phone. Buy some pepper spray. Change up your routes. Find a partner. Do what you need to do to make sure we can all still fully enjoy the sport that we love.