In the world of everyday heroes, not everyone dons a cape. Sometimes, they simply return their grocery cart, even in the middle of a downpour.
Thanks to a viral video, we can all admire the fearless efforts of Mary Thompson, an elderly woman who faced torrential rain to return her cart after a shopping trip at a Walmart in West Virginia. The retail giant was so moved by her actions that they named her “A Walmart Legend” and gifted her a year’s worth of online grocery pickup. However, in true heroic fashion, Thompson humbly replied, “I just did what anyone should do. I mean, I just got wet.”
And let’s be honest, she’s spot on. Returning your grocery cart is basic decency—it’s the least we can do to be considerate members of society.
Let’s Have a Candid Conversation
These days are tough, and life can be utterly perplexing. Does the toilet paper roll over or under? How do we even pronounce “quinoa”? Are plastic straws the bane of our existence or not? It’s a lot to juggle! However, one principle remains unwavering: the golden rule of “don’t be a jerk.” I’m pretty sure it was originally phrased as “don’t be a punk.”
I used to believe that the “don’t be a jerk” guideline included the expectation to return your shopping cart. Apparently, I was mistaken. There are plenty of folks—significant numbers, in fact—who think that returning a cart is optional. How did we end up debating this?
Even worse, some parents hide behind their kids as an excuse. Listen, just because you’re a parent doesn’t give you a license to act entitled. Sure, we all need a little leeway now and then, but parenting does not grant immunity from basic manners. We shouldn’t disregard common decency just because we’re trying to raise the next generation.
And please spare me the “it’s unsafe to leave your kids in the car for 10 seconds” argument. It’s actually more dangerous to drive to the grocery store than to leave your kids in a locked car in your line of sight for a brief moment.
So, Let’s Clarify:
- Have a fussy baby and a toddler throwing a fit? Buckle them in, lock the car (or take them with you), and return the cart.
- Feeling a bit lazy? Park near the cart corral and return the cart.
- Caught in a monsoon? Channel your inner Mary Thompson and return. The. cart.
Sure, there are exceptions. People with disabilities deserve understanding. If you’re in immediate danger, by all means, leave the cart and get to safety. And during a Zombie Apocalypse? All bets are off.
“But it’s just a cart, what’s the big deal?” some may ask. Aside from creating driving hazards and possibly damaging other vehicles, it teaches our kids poor manners.
Come on, folks! This isn’t rocket science. Return. Your. Cart. Be like Mary Thompson!
In Summary
Let’s remember the importance of simple acts of decency, like returning grocery carts. It’s a small yet significant gesture that reflects our values and sets a positive example for the younger generation.