Advice about how to respond to a situation please?

Hello, was out for a walk today, and was approached by a gentlemen (a total stranger) who showed an interest in the slogan on my hoodie whilst walking down a side street, and gently explained what it was. This was a side road, and we were the only two people on it. He asked my name and whether I was a musician (the slogan is about a particular genre of music - I stated both of these). I was already feeling on edge (I suffer from clinical depression/anxiety), so gave away more information than I should probably. I had assumed this was him just initiating a friendly conservation, and was eventually going to lead him to ask for directions. However he went on to talk about whether I knew God loved me. At this point I said very anxiously said 'Sorry I've got to go, I need to keep my pace up, pointing to my Fitbit', and he said 'I want to talk you' even after panicking and walking away. I'm not sure what the motivation behind this gentleman was - admittedly I do suffer from depression, so my face and eyes can look droopy/dead most of the time, so perhaps this was him being just being friendly/decent? 

I can't stop worrying about this situation and how I should've responded. As it happens, I'm a practising Christian too, but I still do not like being put on the spot let alone asked personal questions. Partly because I don't know how to get out the situation politely. I have similar reactions to when chuggers try and approach me in the street. I really do not like being put in the spot, let alone asked personal questions. Please note this person was also from an African background, so perhaps has simply has a slightly different outworking of personal boundaries (differences in culture), and I shouldn't be too worried. 

Parents
  • In addition to what the other members have said, I think that if you find yourself in a similar situation in the future, it might be wise not to advertise that you have a Fitbit, or any other technological gadgets (i.e. mobile phone).

    Try not to fret about that encounter. Yes, it made you feel anxious and uneasy, and I can understand why. When I find myself in situations like that, I will often use the excuse that I'm on my way to an appointment that I cannot be late for, and I'll carry on walking... unless it is someone asking for directions. I generally find that if people are wanting directions, they will make this clear at the onset.

Reply
  • In addition to what the other members have said, I think that if you find yourself in a similar situation in the future, it might be wise not to advertise that you have a Fitbit, or any other technological gadgets (i.e. mobile phone).

    Try not to fret about that encounter. Yes, it made you feel anxious and uneasy, and I can understand why. When I find myself in situations like that, I will often use the excuse that I'm on my way to an appointment that I cannot be late for, and I'll carry on walking... unless it is someone asking for directions. I generally find that if people are wanting directions, they will make this clear at the onset.

Children
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