Bangkok taught me a lesson today

I'll begin this post by telling you I'm fine. I was out walking this evening and was struck by a gentleman on a scooter. I'm glad that he was not hurt either. Outside of a bruised arm and some additional street smarts, I'm no worse for the wear. Maybe a little shaken. I thought, "Great Gretchen. Get killed the day before you meet your daughter."
I spent the majority of the day out and about all by myself today. It's the first time I've been confident enough to do so. I've become very comfortable using the subway and walking around our neighborhood. After Jeff and I had dinner, I ran out for some errands.
There are no street lights in our neighborhood. During rush hour there are traffic officers with whistles to help guide the intersections. Outside of that, you're on your own. It was dusk and dinnertime traffic was starting. I was at a corner that has some obstructed view due to banners hanging on posts. You have to look at 3 different lines of traffic to cross. I thought I was clear, stepped off of the curb, and was hit form the right where the banners were hanging.It was getting dark and he did not have his light on. Luckily the man was British, so we were able to communicate well. He was more upset than me and very,very nice. Pedestrians do not have the right of way here and I was totally responsible. I'm used to walking cities and have gotten TOO comfortable.
It also made me aware that you do not see children walking with their parents in our neighborhood, or really even when we've been more downtown.( We had already discussed that Maneekarn would not be with us walking locally.) We see them occasionally in a diner when their families are working. Most frequently when a family is traveling on a motorbike, which is scary. But not walking. Even on the subway I've only seen one child. Maybe because most people walks to the subway/trains. I don't really know why. If we go anywhere with Maneekarn, a taxi it is.
Just a few more hours! We've got a long day scheduled, but I'll be sure to post pictures when we get home this evening.
G