Wheelchair Etiquette
- The View Looking Up -
Author © Jay Kantor
–All you have to do in life well is 'Roll' with the Punches–
Prologue:
This is not meant to be a 'Poor-Me' story. I was lucky enough to survive a car-crash {and NO it wasn't my fault} My 'Lux' German car had (8) Airbags: I so got my money's worth. But during my recovery I've observed a side of life that I had never experienced before. I’m privy to the 'Freedom' that the Lithium lightweight 'Portable' chair the Newbie-Gen invented for us 'Boomers' - Thanks a lot Newbies. Although, ironically, I can't 'ride-it-in-the rain' or have my cell phone on during operation; serious flame-up precautions, Seriously!
– Lithium Wonder –
I scoot out often, just because now I can. I'm able (but limited) to get out a bit; such a gimp but I'm told I have a terrific 'tude. As a self-described "Observational Writer" people either have such an overwhelming 'courteous' patience with me it almost gets annoying; but, a nice annoyance. Or just the opposite, a disdain for me getting into their way. To the tune of 'how dare you get into my space.' Whew, I really try not to be a nuisance, I even have tiny red flashing bike-lights so I don't get stepped on.
Since I haven't been in a market for a very long time, I've noticed that there seems to be no restrictions at all. For instance: People are bringing in their big dogs; that are not 'Therapy' dogs. Kids play ball and actually skateboard down the aisles; even Smoke-Vapers' don't get a nod from management. I don't know how/or if I should tell this tale? But, to use an overused expression, it 'Irks' me! I've even had bike-riders stream by me asking to 'race' - of course the odds were in my favor. If you're waiting on me you're 'Rolling' backwards.
Although, so many stop to ask if they can "Help-Out" in any way. My Motto: The world is a much nicer place than the evening news would have you believe. With constant reports of unimaginable violence and indifference, this is not our true image of Human-Nature. It is to be kind to one-another; as we would want to be treated. Be kind to the people on the way up ~ they just may be the same ones you'll meet on the way down. As an aside: Perhaps the concept of losing one's physical freedom is just too scary for ones who would unconsciously blame victims? I Get that.
Certainly, this car-crash recovery putting me into a lightweight 'lectric wheelchair has given me a personal perspective on this issue; that has become an issue. A blessing for shut-ins. Although being careful is tantamount to my tipping over; I went for the Option, Life-Alert Button, attached - For just in case.
Ooh ~ With those swift-silent newbie rides sneaking up on us in traffic ~ I've even installed playing cards snapped onto my spokes with wooden clothes-pin hooks to 'click' warnings that I'm coming. Anybody remember those customized 'Schwinn' days? Maybe Tesla can add this feature to their silent speedsters; couldn't hurt. Although I've been told that the 'lectric car industry has started to attach 'Speaker' Varoom Blasters upon acceleration. But, Nah, I'm going with the 'Playing Cards' Clicks; much more realistic. Beats the every minute horn-honkers everyday.
Actually, by becoming self-ambulatory once again, via Lithium ‘Current,' is just a terrific feeling. How I've missed being able to interact with the everyday public. A speedy fun ride! Just a cruising (4) wheels in place of my (2) - how cool is that? To now be referred to as "Mr. Ironsides."
Nature ~ Vs ~ Nurture - Time to Count my Blessings.
– Fasten-Up - Spin Out –
Jay Kantor, Chatsworth, California
'Senior' Vocal Author - Vocal Authors Community
About the Creator
Jay Kantor
Retired: Write for "The Kids Someday"
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Comments (38)
You have such a wonderful take on life, Jay! This world needs as much positivity as we can dish out. I've lived with type 1 diabetes since I was six and always try to look on the bright side of things as well. Great pic of you as well!
Keep on clicking, Jay! CeCe, one roommate in Threes a Crowd wisely moved to warmer California and eventually had a July day in Berkeley named after her… https://easydoesitservices.org/news-posts/cece2023
OMG, I remember the playing cards on my bike spokes. This essay is such a lovely tribute to humanity that often doesn't deserve it. Keep writing, my friend!
Loved reading your perspective, Jay! The world needs more kindness. Your 'Playing Cards' idea is genius. Keep rolling forward!"♿🚀
Fascinating narrative, as usual, Jay. And the pic is eye-catching, too, Cool Dude! Great to put a face to the stories, even if it means you having to put up with us domineering women!! :)
Dear J-Bud, Beautifully done-Such amazing optimism in a seemingly dark world.I am so glad you made it through the accident and with wonderful sense of humour in tact. Working with young adults I learn everyday that the world is not the horror shown on the news. It's in the small things. The tiny gestures that make us human x C, Underland
Great story on many levels. I hope you print and share this with others that are rehab-ing currently. They need the encouragement and and humor from someone who has trekked the journey. I also smiled, because of our Baby Boomer outlook on life. You actually take the high road and haven't been jaded by today's changes. I'm trying to get out more and look for good, but mostly I stay in with my fur babies and feel safe. Bet you have always been an extrovert and I've been an introvert, though.
Dearest J: You hit this one out of the park. Each of us has our personal survivor story. Yours is both internal and external for the world to see. Thank you for sharing your victory with humor, tenacity, and the vigor of a spirit undeterred. Excellent work, Mr. Ironsides! You are a true inspiration! Signed, EYHCS
Jay, you are the coolest! So sorry to learn of your accident, but your tude is pretty amazing! Anytime I hear clicking, I’ll think of you! Love the photo! Looking handsome and a total confirmation of your rad-ness! 💞💫
Jay- is this the article that got plagiarized? Can you share the link to the fraudulent article?
What a handsome photo. Yes the world is better place than what they say in the news. I don’t watch the news a lot cause it gets depressing . What’s your Facebook name for the interview?
Hi Jay! I'm so sorry to hear about the car accident! But I'm glad your recovery is going well! I also really appreciate how you mention how much good there is in the world. It really is easy to forget that, so thank you for the reminder!
Looking good, Jay 😍
I'm so sorry you've had to suffer this but happy to read your comment on Raise your Voice about making some progress. Keep rolling forward, Jay!
My daughter uses a wheelchair, and so I feel ya. A good set of wheels makes all the difference. But if she couldn't use her cell phone while in operation ... I don't know what she would do!!
Cat call and whistles, and oh, you are so handsome Jay and a bag of chips and tomatoes. You related to Kenny Rogers? This is really great, fast learner, great pic. Not sure you can get it any smaller, most times I edit the photo before but you still need it large to get it on Vocal. This is great, lovely to see you. Hope all is well with you. Blessings.
Things I would miss if I was not mobile would not be people. God bless you for reaching retirement status and still wanting to be around places that are 'peoply'. Jay, you have had an awesomely interesting life.
Wow! I never knew you were in a car accident. I hope they got cited for their recklessness. I see that you wrote this 2 months ago. Hoping that you made a full recover, J-Bud
Polite society is polite because reality, once confronted directly, humbles us, whereas fantasy is necessarily grandiose, meant to stimulate pathos to the extreme. Ultimately, even and perhaps especially "the News": a carefully arranged fantasy, a snapshot taken out of context for maximum outrage or sentiment. As always, a pleasure to read your insights into life, old fella! Glad you're still kickin it! Keep on truckin!
“Disabled” is a group that anyone might find themselves joining at anytime… being kind is never the wrong choice ☺️👏
Enjoyed your story. Keep on Truckin' whatever way you get there.
Glad you are better now, count your blessings indeed. I love your ability to spin sunshine into every word that you utter. People are great on the inside, circumstances lead to behaviors mostly. Some, unfortunately find joy in the pain of others, thankfully they number in the few. Now we have you to make it all better. Have a wonderful life with loads of fun.
Excellent observations, Jay. This is something I discuss with my students in ethics of communication: all of us non-disabled people are one accident or some years away from disability. Also, if we treat people's wheelchairs as the extension of their bodies it will make it easier for everyone.
Thank you 'H' ~ I so love hearing from you! I know I keep Schpieling about this ~ But, just (1) more little Schpikle. I would so love to see a 'Senior' category. I hear from so-so many Seniors through my Newsletter followers every day that tell me that they would participate with Vigor! Happy Birthday Daahlink! Jay Kantor, Chatsworth, California - 'Proud' Senior Author -
I loved your positive outlook in this one and hope you're continuing to recover. This one line struck me and will probably stick with me for awhile, 'Be kind to the people on the way up ~ they just may be the same ones you'll meet on the way down.' I enjoyed the read :)