Why impatience at a crosswalk matters

It's ableist. That's it-that's the point.

Accessibility for the disabled isn't just a physical issue, it's a mindset. Our society doesn't just consider it an inconvenience to provide us-the disabled-with access to the same resources the abled use everyday, it considers us an inconvenience.

The other day my ex was giving me a ride to an appointment (he charges me for gas, but that's a whole other post.). At a crosswalk, he was waiting for a person to finish crossing the street. He was upset and said they should have at least "tried" to make it look like they were making an effort to hurry across.

This very mindset is ableist, as we then discussed. I pointed out that I often felt pressured to hurry when I am crossing in front of vehicles, even though I use a cane and find it painful. He said "at least you're trying to hurry up".

But I shouldn't have to. That very thought process is what's ableist. No one should expect me, or any other disabled person, or damn it, anyone, to hurry when crossing the street or in front of a vehicle anywhere. Pedestrians have the right to exist and walk anywhere and being impatient is wrong. Society has developed this impatience problem. Anything that interferes with someone's day results in anger, rudeness, etc.

If someone crossing the street or even walking along in front of you isn't going fast enough for your tastes, be patient. You don't know anything about that person. They may be disabled and unable to move faster. They may be in pain from something. They may just be having a bad day.

It might be time to look in the mirror and ask yourself why you're in such a hurry. Slow down, be kind. To others, and to yourself.