After teaching class today, I immediately headed for the showers only to hit the end of a line of men waiting for a free shower stall. Of all nights to have to wait for a shower, this was one that I wish I did not have to. I was meeting my significant other for his birthday dinner on the Upper West Side and I needed to get out of the gym quickly.

As I waited, shower stalls began to empty and the line became shorter. When my turn arrived, the handicapped shower stall emptied out. I offered it to the gentleman waiting on the other side of the shower bank but he refused. With some trepidation, I entered the stall because I needed to get showered, dressed, and out of there.

Why was I so scared of entering the handicapped shower stall? It has soap, shampoo, and a perfectly functioning shower head. The shower head is even detachable which allows one to get to the hard-to-reach areas of one's body. Because the shower head is so low, you don't have this constant stream of water flowing over you. This allowed me to lather up properly which resulted in one of the best showers I ever took at the gym. Did I mention the detachable shower head that allows you to get those hard-to-reach areas?

Why was I ever concerned about showering in the handicapped stall? There is even a chair in there just in case you need to sit down for a moment. Why do I think I would be looked at differently if I used the handicapped shower stall? Why would I be concerned about what other people think of me for using said shower stall? Is there a stigma about the handicapped shower stall? And should I really care about a person who thinks there is a stigma for using the handicapped shower stall?

Anyway, the next time you shower at the gym, use the handicapped shower stall. I can guarantee you it is the least used stall in the gym. It always has soap and shampoo. And has some great extras the other stalls don't. Later.  ¶ 10:46 PM