Crutches = Better Parking

My apartment complex has a series of handicap parking spots. For years, there were only 3 places by the door I use (only entrance with no steps) and the rest of the spaces were at the front door (many steps). This past year, all the handicap parking was moved to the side door since it is the only door that is "handicap accessible". 

It didn't take long for each of us "handicapped" people to get to know each other. And we each had our "spots". Then new comers arrived and we soon found our regular spots filled. So we were playing "musical chairs" with our cars. We simply took an empty spot. 

One day as I was returning from my chiropractor, I met a few fellow Handicappers. It didn't take long for them to share their frustration that some of the newbies were parking in "my spot". My spot? I didn't know I had an assigned spot. However, they had decided since I use crutches that I should have the spot closest to the door. I thanked them for their thoughtfulness, and then kindly reminded them that we all have some difficulty walking.  
As we continued talking about INVISIBLE illnesses vs VISIBLE, we each realized that we find it easier to give aid and sympathy to people when there is a visible sign. We each went our separate ways deep in our own thoughts:

If we who suffer from illness and pain

aren't acceptable "our own kind",

how can we expect those

who are healthy and well to accept us?

My crutches are a physical sign something is wrong, and people react to that knowledge (see post: Tues Aug 31, 2010).  However, many people suffer from INVISIBLE illness. They don't use crutches, yet are suffering just the same. 

National Invisible Chronic 

Illness Awareness Week 

September 13-19, 2010 

is an annual event sponsored by Rest Ministries.  Visit www.invisibleillnessweek.com and learn more about invisible illnesses. If you have an invisible illness yourself, you will find hope and encouragement. If you want to know more about helping and encouraging your friends and family members, you will find helpful information as well.

Creating a positive day is possible whether you have an illness or not. Although creating a positive day is a personal choice, it's much easier when you have help and support.

You can find help and support
at www.Restminisitries.com.