No elevator ride meant Mrs. Flanigan was not making it to Earth Science class to help that day.
I felt frustrated, of course. But honestly, what I felt even more deeply was sadness. I can work around an inconvenience. I can adjust a schedule. But what about the students who require that elevator every single day? Students who do not have another option. They could not get to their own class.
That moment made me pause and wonder: how often does this happen? And how often do we not notice because it is not affecting us personally in that moment?
It reminded me that accessibility is not a luxury. It is not a bonus feature. It is a necessity. And when it is missing, even temporarily, it sends a message to those who depend on it that their needs come second.
Scripture calls us to see and care for one another in tangible ways:
“Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.”
Galatians 6:2
“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves.”
Proverbs 31:8
“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.”
Galatians 6:9
This experience has given me more empathy and a deeper awareness. Healing has opened my eyes to things I moved past too quickly before. I am learning to notice, to ask questions, and to advocate when something is not right.
Lord, help us build spaces where everyone can move freely, learn fully, and belong completely. Give us eyes to see barriers before they become roadblocks and hearts that choose compassion over convenience. Amen.
Sometimes the lesson is not in where we were trying to go, but in what we notice when the way is blocked.
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