by Melissa Cesareo

Created on: March 24, 2008   Last Updated: March 25, 2008

Reflecting on the interactions I've recently experienced with others in my community, I think of friendly chats, hostile stares, even arguments that ensued because of a misunderstanding, or a lack of tolerance or patience. Some of these I observed; others I was directly involved in.

To be a part of the change I wish to see in my world, I choose to try to be more understanding, more tolerant, more patient in my own exchanges with others. Here are some thoughts to keep in mind that may help YOU to better your own interactions.

Don't assume a person who appears able-bodied is, and that they should not have use of a handicapped parking space or bathroom stall. While there will always be those who take advantage of these amenities, the majority of users have a legitimate need for them. Restroom stalls for the handicapped are larger, have grab bars, and often, baby changing tables. Even those not in a wheelchair may need extra room to maneuver, or to self-catheterize. Some with heart conditions, arthritis, partial paralysis, even obesity, may need the grab bars or space provided. These same health conditions and many others may necessitate a person using a handicapped parking placard. Conditions which cause easy and debilitating fatigue, such as heart disease, diabetes, arthritis, Multiple Sclerosis, lung diseases, Lupus and Lyme's disease, all may require a person to park nearer a door than the general public to enable them to use their energy to actually conduct business rather than exert themselves just trying to get there. These conditions aren't necessarily visible. Not all patients of these various conditions/diseases always need to use a cane, or wheelchair or other assistive device that would clue you in to their disability. Therefore, keep an open mind and your patience when waiting for your turn in these places, or when seeing another seemingly able-bodied person using them.

Foreigners immigrate to this country. They always have and always will, as long as our constitution remains largely intact. Unless you are full-blooded Native American, you, (or your ancestors) originally were foreigners. And most immigrants to this country did not historically have mastery of the English language; (Unless they hailed from England, or other English-speaking nations.) Therefore, the next time you are frustrated by someone's inability to make themselves clear to you, rather than becoming angry and saying something nasty about "these foreigners", take the time to teach

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