When Anna Grace Boswell began her new morning jogging routine, she never expected it would lead to a viral TikTok video featuring her concerned neighbor, Stanley, who believed she was fleeing from danger and stopped her to ask if she was safe. The heartwarming video shows Boswell’s initial shock at the unexpected encounter with her neighbor, who had no idea that she had just signed up for a half-marathon weeks prior.
The video quickly gained over 11 million views and garnered more than 10,000 comments from viewers both delighted and perplexed by Stanley’s genuine concern. Some questioned whether he should also be running while others joked that he was ready to help regardless of the situation. The humorous exchange between Boswell and her neighbor sparked a follow-up video featuring Stanley himself, in which he explained his instinctive reaction.
I was playing basketball and out my peripheral, it was just like instant fight or flight,” said Stanley. Something just didn’t seem right, and I didn’t even notice she had full running gear on.
Boswell shared her thoughts on the incident with People magazine, expressing her initial shock at the encounter. Because in my mind, I looked very cool.” Despite being taken aback by Stanley’s actions, Boswell acknowledged that he is a genuine person with pure intentions. As a woman who runs alone, she appreciates living in an area where she feels supported by her neighbors.
He humbled me for sure! But he’s such a genuine guy. I knew he had only pure intentions,” said Boswell. The world needs more Stanleys.
Though Stanley has since moved away from the neighborhood, Boswell will always remember him as a caring and attentive neighbor who was ready to protect her at all costs.
