I hypothesize that most of these people who have handicapped placards hanging from their rear view mirrors are merely obese. I’m not sure when this pervasive condition became a handicap and why this merits a space closer to a building. “I have chronic back pain.” Yes, because you’re obese. “I have osteoarthritis.” Yes, because you’re obese. So, you’re trying to tell the world that you’re in so much pain that you CAN get into and out of your car, sit in the seat, and drive for a time, but you CAN’T be bothered with walking to the door like the rest of humanity. Never mind that once you’re finally inside McDonald’s or Costco, you’ll lumber along with the rest of humanity. These are the seeds of another rant.

Today, I want to talk about handicapped placards and free parking at parking meters. I don’t understand this. Why are handicapped drivers exempt from inserting coins at the meters? The car is parked right there, next to the meter. In fact, they often have to step up or roll onto the curb next to the meter to get to their destination. Surely they have money for gas and insurance. They’re not taking the bus or medical transport. Surely they aren’t that handicapped. Can’t see? They’re driving a car. Can’t move their upper appendages? They’re driving a car. Unless, of course, someone else is driving their car — which would indicate that they do not need a license or a placard. Can someone help me to understand this phenomenon?