Well, I actually went to a store today–Target. I only had to pick up a few things, but some were at the farrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr end of the store, so I rode on one of those little, red electric carts. (They have to be red; it’s Target.)
It was an interesting experience.
It’s good they don’t go very fast because I could be a danger to myself as well as others, but the Stop function is, shall we say, effective. If you don’t watch it, you can get whiplash, which is no small feat given you are only driving at .00002 miles per hour (That may be a generous estimate.) I could probably get this down to a smooth cruise if I practiced more, but I kinda (slang alert!) think I’m not going to be using it that much. (Let it be!)
Another weird thing is that people look at you funny. Well, I guess that is not totally accurate. Other customers don’t look at you at all. They will not look you in the eye, and unless you are rounding a corner a bit too fast (hypothetically speaking), and they have to hug the canned goods to keep from being run over, they act as if you are invisible.
Do they feel sorry for someone who needs this tool to do such a mundane thing as shop, but are uncomfortable with your need? Do they judge you, thinking that you probably don’t need it and are just lazy (I made sure to limp really noticeably when I got up so they could tell I was hurting. Not that hard to do.)? Or do they just not care enough. Period.
Next time I’m shopping on two good legs and I see a person in one of these snazzy go-carts, I’m going to look him in the eye, smile, tell her I’m not judging, and ask it if I can possibly help to reach an item (Notice my PC gender sensitivity!). S/he will probably call security, but I will feel better about myself.
A p r o n h e a d -- Lilly Green 
You and accretionsofstimuli.com are on the same page this morning. Funny, sad, and appropriate!
I’ll check it out.
I hear you, having wheeled around a large grocery store in my wheelchair..
It’s a different perspective, for sure.
yes, I noticed what is for sale on the bottom shelf 🙂
Did you have a crash helmet on?
I should have! I made sure to do not too much reversing, too, because the thing beeps like a truck backing up! Way to draw attention.
When I broke my ankle I had to use one of those red things. I remember the sense of being invisible, and the need to prove my injury. So, now I am reminded to look in the eyes of folks in go-carts. After all, they may be excellent bloggers and potentially great friends!
Absolutely! 🙂 Isn’t it funny how a difference in perspective can be so meaningful1
Hey ! At least you got out for an adventure ! Better than being stuck at home.
You’re right. I was going stir crazy!