Culture Clash

Normally when we think about cultures clashing, we consider cultures built around different ethnic groups, e.g., the Eastern Culture vs. the Western Culture. Our "common knowledge" understandings deeply embedded in our psyches hinder us from bridging the gaps - doable but difficult. However, there is  a more subtle culture that permeates our existence.

Recently, I had the opportunity to enjoy a visit by my grandchildren. We met at the pool of my big city apartment. For two mornings, the two little ones were able to have fun in the pool. Since there is no handicapped accessible stairs or lift, I was not able to join them in the water. 

At one point, my five-year-old grandson noticed that I was prevented from joining them in the pool. He wanted to know why there were no stairs or lift available for me. When his mother and I tried to explain to him that the apartment building management had refused my request because they were not legally bound to do so, he wanted to know why they wouldn't do it anyway.  Further explanation of the decision-making process involved finally resulted with my daughter saying that sometimes people just do not do the right thing. 

As our country moves away from Christian mores and "cultural understandings," we are left with a void. So, providing the physically handicapped with accessibility to "common facilities" vs. the legally-required accessibility is a difficult gap to be bridged.  I wonder, is it doable?