In my email this morning, the following narrative from my friend Debbie.
Me, after I stepped aside as a car made its way into the space where I was standing outside the motel; “Excuse me, you know this isn’t a parking spot? It’s the handicap ramp.”Man: Yeah, I know, I’m handicapped.Me: Yes, I see, but this isn’t a handicapped spot. It’s the ramp to the door, and your parking here will block it.Man: (Agitated and raising his voice) Why don’t you mind your business and worry about something that affects you?Me: Ah. Well, it does affect me, because I just helped my 92-year-old dad up the ramp, and parked our vehicle, with a handicapped permit, a row away. Now he can’t get down the ramp with you parking here. And nobody with a walker or a wheelchair or anyone else that needs the ramp can use it to get in or out of the hotel.Man: (Roaring) Leave me the F*** alone!Me: Excuse me?Man: Go away! Do you want me to call the cops??Me: Yes, by all means. I’ll wait here with you. Do you need to use my phone?Man: Shut the F*** Up and get out of here! (Yelling and pointing at his plate) See THIS? I served my country in the United States Army.Me: Well, then I’m so glad I also served, in the United States Navy, so people like you can treat others like this. And I’m sure my dad, who was an Army Combat Medic and Prisoner of War, will also be delighted to hear who blocked the ramp.Nothing like ending the day on a happy note. Wow.Had dinner and a nice evening with Mom’s 98-year-old sister in the Catskills and will head over to NH tomorrow.
Being a writer, I want to write a long blistering article about the selfishness of individuals, and the lack of respect shown to one another. I want… but I won’t.
Three Quarters & Counting 
Thankfully, by the time I checked this morning, the vehicle was gone. So dad, and the man in the wheelchair parked next to the ramp, at least, didn’t have difficulty. I did go mention it to the folks at the desk last night, but then went on to bed because it was late and I needed to help Dad get settled. I wondered later if perhaps the man had been out drinking. Or maybe he is just naturally belligerent. Beats me.