"The world has many unintentionally cruel mechanisms that are not designed for people who walk on their hands." - John Irving, "The World According to Garp"
In a world where the majority of people move with their legs and feet as the natural mode of transportation, it is often overlooked just how many everyday objects, systems, and processes are not designed with the hand-walkers in mind
In a world where the majority of people move with their legs and feet as the natural mode of transportation, it is often overlooked just how many everyday objects, systems, and processes are not designed with the hand-walkers in mind. This oversight has led to numerous situations where individuals who have chosen or been born with the ability to walk on their hands face a unique set of challenges that most others do not need to consider.
The world is full of unintentionally cruel mechanisms, and these can be found in both everyday objects and larger systems that govern society. One example is the design of standard door handles: they are often placed too high or too low for hand-walkers to easily reach while standing on their hands. This simple oversight can lead to frustrating situations where someone with this ability is unable to enter a building or access a particular room without assistance.
Similarly, many public transportation systems are designed primarily with those who walk on two legs in mind. Hand-walking commuters often face challenges when it comes to navigating stairs, escalators, and even trains or buses that require certain physical abilities to board. As a result, these individuals must often rely on alternative methods of transport, such as driving their own vehicle or relying on others for assistance.
In addition to transportation and building access issues, hand-walkers also face unique challenges when it comes to participating in recreational activities. Many sports and physical hobbies are designed with the assumption that participants have two legs and two arms, which can make it difficult for those who walk on their hands to participate fully. For example, a basketball hoop may be too high for someone to dunk while standing on their hands, or a rowing machine may not allow an individual to engage in the proper hand-walking technique.
Moreover, many workplaces and professional environments are not designed with hand-walkers in mind. This can result in challenges when it comes to finding employment that allows for the use of one's unique abilities. For instance, a traditional office setting might feature high desks and chairs, making it difficult for someone who walks on their hands to work comfortably. Similarly, many industries require certain physical abilities or the ability to stand for extended periods, which can be challenging for hand-walkers.
As a result of these unintentionally cruel mechanisms, individuals who walk on their hands face a world that is not designed with them in mind. This often leads to feelings of isolation and exclusion from certain aspects of society. To address this issue, there have been calls for more inclusive design practices and increased awareness of the unique challenges faced by hand-walkers. However, until these changes are implemented on a larger scale, those who walk on their hands must continue to navigate a world that is not designed with them in mind.
In conclusion, while many aspects of daily life may seem ordinary or mundane for most people, the unintentionally cruel mechanisms that are not designed for hand-walkers can present significant challenges and barriers. From door handles and public transportation to recreational activities and professional environments, it is essential to consider how these elements of society can be made more accessible and inclusive for all individuals, regardless of their unique abilities or limitations.