Preferential assistance

Sometimes, things fall into my lap. One incident allowed me to skip lining up for hours

What can I say people....?

Since June 2018, there has not been a single day where I have been separated from Bree. From the time I get up to the time I go to sleep, she has been by my side – except for one period of about two weeks.
 
As a family, we have always enjoyed camping and travelling. The idea of travelling abroad had always appealed to us, especially my wife. A few years back, we decided to go on a cruise to New Caledonia. Unfortunately, if I decided to take Bree along with us, we would have had to put her in quarantine for two weeks, which was the whole holiday period. Because of this reason, we resorted to leaving Bree home with my in-laws. I think Bree was excited about spending time with nan and par who spoil her like a grandchild.
 
Minus Bree, I had to go back to using the cane. The cane is so much more concentration, but far less distraction. It has no tendency to look for food like Bree. I will admit, it took me a few days to get used to the idea of not having Bree make some of the decisions.
 
On the morning of our departure, I remember arriving at Circular Quay in Sydney and seeing this huge, white ship sitting there. It was a spectacular site. I had never been to Sydney before as well, so my eyes were wide open, taking in as much as possible. One thing I didn’t like was lining up like sheep in a run, waiting for officials to check our passports and tickets before boarding. I don’t really like lines.
 
Waiting there for about five minutes, and then a small man, wearing a uniform of a ship official, came over to me and said, “You guys can come with me to the assisted services line.” My mouth hit the ground. Before I could answer, the rest of my family were following the man, leaving me where I was. When I finally realized we no longer had to line up, I hurried after them. Both my kids yelled out to me “We are so lucky you’re disabled dad.”
 
We were the only ones in the new line. For a moment, I thought we were going to be searched to drugs or something. Two minutes later, we were at the buffet restaurant, overlooking the long line of people waiting to get on board.

So, what did I learn?

I consider myself someone who thinks everyone should be treated equally. When opportunities come to you and it goes against your principles, stick your principles, and enjoy a moment in the sun. Doesn’t happen always.

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