Ifind it easier to ask people what happened to them now that I use a cane. It's like it gave me a right of passage. Maybe that's why we noe wish people would ask rather than stare. My way of breaking the ice is "What happened that causes you to (use a cane, a wheel chair, limp, wear a brace, etc.) I usuallg get a smile and good conversation. I help starring and their embarrassed parents by saying something like "My legs won't walk straight so I need this to help." I'm one who carries noticeable canes and that alone alows for conversation starters.
Jeff, I can't be the only one wondering what the lift was for since they wouldn' let you use it. I worked at a bank and when the couriers brought our shipments of cash and coin I insisted they use the back door which wasn't wheelchair friendly. They had a nifty light weight hard plastic ramp that they grabbed and threw down at the door for their dolly. I know it isn't your place to make buildings accessible, but is there such a thing wide enough for wheelchair use? I can't imagine your frustration. Patti
