Life can be full of perplexing decisions. Is it better to hang your toilet paper over or under? Can you wear white after Labor Day? And what do you even call fizzy drinks—soda, pop, or Coke?
While these queries might spark endless debates, there’s one topic that seems to incite more passion than it should: the return of shopping carts. Honestly, why is this even a discussion? The answer is simple: return your shopping cart, people.
Sure, you might think, “What if it’s raining?” Return the cart anyway. Feeling lazy? Hopefully, you parked close to the corral, but regardless, take the time to return it. Too lazy to head to the store? Consider using services like this at-home insemination kit instead!
Got kids throwing a tantrum because you wouldn’t buy them candy at the checkout? That’s tough, but you can either take them with you or buckle them up and return the cart. I understand that parents deserve some grace, but it doesn’t give us the right to ignore basic decency.
It takes a mere 20 seconds to return a cart, and you can keep an eye on your car the entire time since your doors are locked. If safety is a concern, remember that it’s far riskier to drive to the grocery store than to leave your kids in a locked vehicle—within sight—for those few moments.
Of course, there are exceptions to this rule. Individuals with disabilities deserve consideration. If you’re in a situation that places you in immediate danger, feel free to leave the cart and prioritize your safety. And if we find ourselves in the midst of an apocalypse, well, all bets are off.
But aside from those exceptions, please—just return your cart! I’ve heard some people argue that leaving the cart for an employee to manage is helping them keep their job. Not even close. Those employees are already tasked with moving carts from the corral to the store; your cart is not their responsibility. Leaving it behind is akin to tossing garbage out of your car window, expecting someone else to pick it up. It’s inconsiderate, plain and simple.
Others might dismiss the issue, saying, “It’s just a cart; what’s the big deal?” The big deal is the potential damage to other vehicles and the hassle it creates in crowded parking lots. Finding a parking space is stressful enough without navigating around rogue shopping carts.
I’m not saying you’re a terrible person if you occasionally forget to return your cart—we’re all human, after all—but let’s stop making excuses. This becomes even more important when you have kids with you. You’re setting an example for them, teaching them about responsibility and respect for shared spaces.
As surprising as it is that this topic has become a heated debate, it’s disheartening to see people criticized or ignored when they genuinely need help, especially when managing children. The principle of “don’t be an asshole” applies here, too. If you spot an unattended cart, consider returning it for someone who might be overwhelmed. We all have our struggles, and maybe that individual is dealing with something we can’t see.
Life can be baffling; I’ve recently learned that tampons shouldn’t be flushed and that stick-on sandals are a real thing. I’m still trying to comprehend the ending of Lost. But some things remain clear: dispose of your trash properly, flush the toilet, and above all, return your shopping cart.
Summary
Returning shopping carts shouldn’t be up for debate. It takes mere seconds and shows respect for others. While there are exceptions to this rule, let’s all strive to do the right thing and set a good example for future generations.