Following arrows should be as easy as a two-piece jigsaw
Even in what we now wistfully refer to as “normal times”, I hate going to the supermarket. This is mainly because of an aversion to spending money on things I actually need, when I’m far happier simply squandering it. But then there are, of all things, other people. Urgh.
Before we even get inside, supermarket car parks are where we see ordinary human beings at their worst. There is always a contingent of shoppers who feel too special to observe no entry signs, or to desist from parking on the hatching, pick-up area, parentand-child section or, of course, disabled bays.
Unconstrained by common courtesy, there’s no need for these creatures to consider others by returning trolleys to their little shelters; especially if it involves walking in excess of 20 feet.
These are the people who like to glibly say “political correctness gone mad” on any matter. It obviates the need to actually construct an argument.
I refer to the type of person who asserts with misplaced, smug sarcasm: “So, if I leave my telly on standby the world will end!” in response to something that no one has ever said, suggested or even implied.
But in the spring of 2020, these people have become considerably more dangerous.
I overheard one of them say in a supermarket: “What! If I walk the wrong way up the aisle I might kill someone.”
The response to that is: yes, quite conceivably. It’s a very straightforward fact. Not that I said anything as, like most people, I tend to avoid confrontation.
The supermarkets, for our wellbeing, have two-metre spacing and arrows on the floor showing the direction in which customers should walk. It’s about as tricky to negotiate as a two-piece jigsaw.
Walking along an aisle the wrong way because “it’s empty” fails to recognise what should be incredibly obvious; that it won’t be empty for long.
Some people truly are as thick as gravel marmalade. But the rule flouting is mainly attributable to otherwise reasonably intelligent people being rather stupid - and arrogant.
My suggestion, of having an hour each week when only I’m allowed in, is unlikely to be realised. In the meantime how about this? Just follow the damn arrows!