Unrelated to BDSM, but in graduate school I took a seminar in disability law. Each of us had to choose a disability to emulate for 24 hours, during which time we were encouraged to go out in public and do normal routines. I spent the day using a wheelchair, and a friend and I decided to go to Boston and do some shopping and go to dinner, use the subway, etc.
The experience had its intended effect. I became very aware of both structural and attitude obstacles. Both are everywhere. I'm very appreciative of the opportunity that class gave me.
That class sounds very beneficial. I like that you decided to get out and about. I can easily see how some people would stick closer to home and not be especially active. I wish everyone would take it.
In fact, this experience has made me think about emulating other disabilities. Though it would be hard to block out sound, I might try next for actual deafness for a day or two. Over a weekend I would like to block my eyesight also.
I spent some time on crutches when I was in the Army, and also about 10 years ago. They're certainly irritating but I wouldn't consider them disabling (I had to "run" down three flights of stairs to make it to formation...I usually made it but once I was written up for being late!!) A wheelchair would be great if I could get my hands on one. I'd also like to try performing normal activities without the use of one arm.
