Things, generally, do not often upset me or cause me irritation.  Lately, most often as I walk around my university campus, I admit that I find myself getting a little irritated with my peers.  The reason for this irritation is the automated use of automatic doors designed for the less able.

I want to be clear that it is the automated use that disturbs me,  Of course there are times when the arms and hands are full and the only option left is to push our bottoms or sides into this helpful button.  There are also other examples of these kinds of instances.

I would guess that I am probably coming off a bit grouchy thus far, but let me explain.

The population that has been the source of my chosen irritation has been young, able-bodied students, aged 18-25.  They walk towards the school building, backpacks on, usually phone in hand, headphones in ear, and straight-faced.  They then press the button to activate the automatic door and enter.

“Okay, Jacob, that does not seem like the worst of deeds.  You are forgiving of much worse on a daily basis.”

Well, let us think about this.  Let us think about who these doors were made for. We needn’t think very hard.  Clearly on all of these buttons is the symbol with which we identify those with physical disabilities.  These are the people who this service has been intended to aid.  These are people who may have lost use of or have completely lost a limb or several.  They may have all of these, but lost motor skills.  They may have lost their vision.

Whatever they have lost or never had possession of, I am sure that these people would give anything to be able.  Anything.  This is what pains me.  Everyday, I see able-bodied students, fully healthy, taking what they have for granted.  In every moment there is an opportunity for infinite joy and happiness.  I have legs.  I have arms.  I have my vision.  I am healthy.  Within this matrix we live in, it is easy to forget these simple joys.  You are alive.  You are healthy and able.  Embrace and love that.

As I wrote this post, I noticed a change in my energy.  There is no longer even a hint of irritation.  It has been replaced with a mix of gratitude and compassion.

Gratitude for being so lucky to have been born healthy to such a great family in a great country.

Compassion for those less fortunate.  This is not even close to pity, but compassion.  I know there are those less physically able that are living to the fullest, but I feel for their inability to experience certain things that I, personally, take so much joy in.

Compassion also for those in a period where life has become automated.  I hope that you can awaken to realize the joys of simply being able to walk to class or open door.  You are very lucky.  I hope that in the future you may use the symbol we place on a button to bring you back to the present moment.  The present moment in which you are filled with joy for your health and strength, and compassion for those less fortunate.  I hope that joy and compassion spreads to every reach of your heart.