Lost Opportunity

I was making a quick run to the grocery store the other day, New Year's Eve. Things were busy, the parking lot packed. There were still piles of snow pushed up into barriers at the end of the aisles. Things were slow, but people were generally patient and understanding as others negotiated the conditions.

As I parked and approached the building, a young woman came out and got into an SUV that was parked along one of the snow piles, partially blocking the traffic flow. Someone was in the vehicle, waiting for her.

This healthy, young (and apparently feeling entitled) woman put her cart on the other side of the aisle she was in, then hopped into the SUV with her two bags.

The shopping cart was left with one wheel on the snow bank, mostly sticking out and blocking traffic. It was incredibly rude and inconsiderate. If, however, she had gone tangentially, to the side instead of forward, she could have returned the cart to the store sidewalk. It was the same distance, maybe closer.

Although I made a loud comment (that she may not have heard) I didn't do anything else. What I immediately realized I should have done was rush over (I was one aisle away), and moved the cart to in front of the SUV, blocking their way. But I didn't. I hesitated, the moment was lost, and the troglodyte drove away satisfied. The only lasting effect is my shame and anger that I didn't act more quickly and forefully.