Let's talk about disabled parking permits

As someone who hasn't always been disabled, I know the frustrating feeling of running late to an important meeting, only to find that there is no parking in sight aside from the big, beautiful, empty disabled parking spaces directly in front of the entrance of the building you're going to. They look SO convenient, but it's not only a finable offense to park in them; it's also a hugely unkind and disrespectful move that will likely earn you lots of karmic nails in your tires and coolant leaks for the foreseeable future.

There are far too many reasons to list why someone might need a disabled parking permit, but all you need to know is that whoever is driving or riding in that vehicle has a physical, neurological, or visual impairment that makes it very challenging for them to walk from a far parking space, therefor making closer parking what allows them access to this location. For the sake of equal access for all, designated parking spaces are reserved for these needs. Many people incorrectly assume that anyone who doesn't walk with a limp or need a wheelchair is "cheating" the system and does not deserve a permit, but so many disabilities aren't visible, and it isn't a permit holder's job to prove to you or any other Trader Joe's Sunday morning shopper why they need to park in one of these spaces. It could be someone with limited lung capacity or a mother who needs the additional space to unload her disabled daughter's wheelchair. It could even be someone with POTS who can become dizzy and faint from extended walking or standing.

So before you shoot a dirty look or say something rude under your breath to some parking in that prime parking spot, remember that a doctor has decided this is medically necessary for them and quite frankly, its none of your business why.

So, the next time you're circling the lot like a caffeinated vulture, eyeing those tempting blue-and-white spaces with envy, take a breath—and keep driving. They're not a VIP pass for being in a hurry or "just running in real quick." They're a lifeline for people who need them to access the world safely.

And hey, if you're still tempted to park there without a permit, just remember: Karma has excellent aim, and she drives a tow truck.

So be cool. Be kind. Park like your grandma's watching. And if you're lucky enough not to need a disabled parking permit, appreciate that privilege—and let someone else use the good spot.