Advice

Well, I'm caving. Who wants some tips that have helped me out?
(Please note that these, at times, will completely contradict the advice of M or other bloggers. This is what works for me, and it may not work for you.)

1. Fear is NOT the appropriate response

Yes, I absolutely had to put a reference to 9 in here (good movie, by the way).

He loves fear. It makes Him stronger, it gives Him motivation to go on. Though every single instinct in your body will scream curses at you, TRY YOUR HARDEST to NOT be afraid. Mutter a little mantra of things that make you happy. Think of a better place and time. However, be warned that a lack of fear makes Him curious, and He may step it up to test your limits.

2. Operator Symbols (X) MIGHT work, but use in moderation

Don't plaster them all around the perimeter in the hopes it'll send him running. For some people, it's a repellent, others, bait. Too many of them may be interpreted as a challenge, and you DON'T want to provoke him.

3. Eat, Drink, and be Funny

It's a stressful ordeal, I know. But you MUST stay lighthearted. Crack jokes, even a few at his expense. This makes you feel a little calmer, and who knows? Make a good enough crack about His "face" or His tentacles and His morale might dip.

4. You don't have to isolate yourself

I've read so many blogs where people run away from their homes, or refuse to allow another to stay with them, all for fear that He will get to the other person. I completely understand the logic behind this, but have you ever noticed how those who "split up" in horror movies often end up stabbed through the face?

"But Sandra, this shit is REAL!"

Be that as it may, you need to take into account the fact that the more people you keep together, the easier it is to stay lighthearted. Don't make me quote that bundle of sticks anecdote at you!

5. Running isn't for everyone

He LOVES chases. Think of a wild animal. Don't they prefer to chase down and tackle their prey after a good bout of exercise? Same deal. Nowhere is safe, but with enough people and a little common sense, you can hold your own pretty freaking well.

6. When you see Him...

-Don't run off screaming
-Guns aren't very helpful. Neither are shooting fireworks at Him to blind him. I found that out the hard way.
-Attacking Him will not hurt Him, but the courage to do so will surprise Him.

7. If He touches you...

-Don't thrash or struggle. He won't kill you until he's ready, and you'll only hurt yourself.
-Don't try to avoid "eye contact". He won't hypnotize you. Looking Him straight in the "face" is another sign to Him that you won't go so easily.
-If He gently touches you to simply startle you, don't lose your shit. Simply pick His hand or tentacle up off your shoulder/head/arm, and drop it. Then walk off without acknowledging Him.

8. If you encounter a Hallowed/Proxy/Agent...

Don't freak. He won't tell them to kill you. He wants to reserve that privelege for Himself. If they attempt to do anything more than intimidate you/wreck your space, fight back, put them down, call the police. When they next meet up with Him, He will deal with them accordingly.

That's all I have time to remember. I've learned all of this through ten years of experience. Hell, who knows? Maybe he gave me my gift (Preston, my little fluffy baby <3) as a sign of respect. Maybe.

And remember, these may not apply to you. If you have any questions, just comment and I'll do my best.

Stay safe, everyone.

I gotta go, Preston's pecking at the monitor.

-Sandra