Linda Rosa, a 71-year-old retired MTA worker, was attacked by a group of teenage girls at a Brooklyn subway station on New Year’s Day. The girls attempted to rob her, but Rosa fought back, refusing to let go of her purse as they punched and stomped on her. She managed to grab hold of their hair and hold them down until they ran away. Rosa then went to a nearby church for help and was taken to the hospital for treatment. Despite the attack, she expressed gratitude that she was not more seriously injured and forgave her attackers, acknowledging that they were just foolish teenagers.
The attack on Rosa took place during a violent period in the city’s transit system, with other incidents such as a woman being burned to death, a man pushed in front of a train, and numerous stabbings or slashings. Rosa spoke out about the prevalence of violence, stating that it could happen to anyone and anywhere, emphasizing the need for vigilance and safety precautions when using public transportation or walking the streets. Despite the traumatic experience, Rosa remained resilient and focused on the importance of forgiveness and grace towards those who harmed her.
Rosa described how the teenage girls repeatedly tried to grab her purse, with one of them punching her in the face and causing a cut on her nose. Despite the physical attack, Rosa refused to give up her belongings and fought back, even trying to kick her attacker and protect herself. She managed to control the situation by grabbing the girls’ hair and holding them down until they fled, demonstrating her determination and strength in the face of adversity.
After the attack, Rosa sought assistance at a nearby church where she was tended to and then taken to the hospital for treatment. Reflecting on the incident, she expressed gratitude that she was not seriously harmed and that the attackers did not have weapons. She also emphasized the importance of having faith and remaining strong in the face of danger, highlighting the resilience and courage that helped her survive the attack and seek help in the aftermath.
Despite the traumatic experience, Rosa maintained a forgiving attitude towards her attackers, understanding that they were young and foolish. She acknowledged that they may not have fully understood the consequences of their actions and chose to offer them grace and forgiveness instead of seeking revenge. This compassionate response reflects Rosa’s character and values, as well as her commitment to promoting peace and understanding even in the face of violence and adversity.
In conclusion, Linda Rosa’s experience of being attacked by a group of teenage girls at a Brooklyn subway station on New Year’s Day highlights the prevalence of violence in the city’s transit system and the need for increased safety measures to protect all passengers. Rosa’s courage and resilience in fighting back against her attackers, seeking help, and showing forgiveness towards them serve as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. Her story reminds us of the importance of remaining vigilant, seeking help when needed, and responding to violence with courage, strength, and compassion.
