To the editor:

From my Old West Lawrence home, I frequently see residents and visitors enjoying the day and neighborhood while walking in our streets. While I have undoubtedly forgotten much of my parents’ sage advice, one thing stuck with me: If you cannot walk on sidewalks or choose not to do so for some valid reason, then walk in the street against the flow of the traffic so you can see what is coming toward you.

My rough estimate is that perhaps half the people passing through O.W.L. and walking in our streets are doing so in a manner that prevents them from seeing oncoming cars and bicycles. Sometimes they also do so while pushing a baby in a carriage. If you do not care about your own safety, please consider the safety of your children and the vehicle’s occupant by walking against the traffic flow.

James H. Thorp,

Lawrence