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I've come to the conclusion that there is no place on Earth that can be compared to a parking lot. They are the only place where the words "Crazy pedestrian ran out in front of me" can be followed five minutes after with "Crazy driver almost hit me".

Parking lots are a transitional place. Roles are changes quickly and smoothly. What's more, in both roles we hold grudges against those in an opposing role. These 'roles' of course being pedestrians and drivers.

It is a most peculiar place where driving the wrong direction will gain you a few derogative names but never death or a ticket. A place where people feel free to run across the street randomly or even walk down the middle of a lane with cars following close behind waiting for them to get out of the way.

A stange mix of anxiety and calmness can be found in parking lots. You may be nervous about being hit, or hitting someone, but you still remain confident that the other person will see you and change their direction.

Yes, parking lots are a strange phenonena here on Earth. There the only place where you really might need to watch for little old ladies crossing the street while hold diapers and bananas or whatever else little old ladies may be carrying.

What's more, there is never segregation to be found in a parking lot. Everyone despises everyone else equally for being in their spot or in the way. Nobody dislikes a person less due to race, gender, age, religion, or whatever. No, we all just wish everyone else would remove themselves from the parking lot so that we may get the closest spot to the door. They are also one of the few places where you might complain about the handicapped getting benifits. These benifits of course being the good parking.

I suppose at this point I'm just rambling, but I really do find parking lots amazing. Next time you find yourself in one, stop for a moment. Somewhere you aren't in anyones way and you aren't likely to be hit, stop and observe the movement around you. Perhaps you will see why I am so fascinated with parking lots.