Number 9

On my top ten list of All Time Rackets in Human History, Number 9 comes in at: Paying for a parking space. Now, let me be clear, and fair, here. I understand that parking DECKS might have some costs involved: construction, maintenance, security, etc., and I can get behind that. But when you charge me to fill an EMPTY AREA on the street or in a small lot, you lose my support. What was there before me? Nothing. What is there after me? Nothing. So in the interim, I can't occupy that space without incurring a fee?! A fee makes an empty space "mine"?! What if I just keep paying it? Can I live there, in my car?
I'm sorry, I know this rant must be old (comedically), but it just feels like a kind of logic that invites ludicrous, slippery-slope premises. It seems ANY space I'm not currently occupying would be up for grabs in this worst-case scenario: "Welcome to our fine restaurant, sir. Please to enjoy our foods AND our special on sitting chairs tonight. Only an extra $2 with the purchase of your meal."
"Excuse me sir, do you plan to stand in this part of Target much longer? I'm afraid this is our Pay-To-Stand Zone. Our free, Standing Convenience Area is up front by the doors."


I make word thoughts from my head lump using my pants compooter.