few years ago I lost my left leg in an accident. Once I was riding the train and sat down in the seat reserved for the disabled.
A few stops later a woman came up to me telling me I needed to move because she needed that seat. I told her I was sorry, but I needed the seat myself. She got all aggressive. I again apologized and said I really needed the seat myself. She left and then stood right in front of me, arms crossed, glaring like I had just committed a crime.
It was summer, hot as hell, and the train was packed. Sweat clung to everyone like a second skin. I had my prosthetic on that day, covered by loose pants, so to anyone just glancing, I looked “normal.” Which apparently meant I didn’t look disabled enough for her.
She started muttering loudly. “Some people just pretend to be disabled. Shameful.” I didn’t respond at first. I’ve learned that arguing in public usually just makes it worse. But then she poked my shoulder. Hard.