A recent trip to the grocery store was such an eye-opener for me. We are all feeling the pinch at the gas pumps and in the stores. I wanted to buy a head of lettuce and the price was $8.00. I couldn't justify buying it at that price. It's not an essential ingredient, and it was just the topper for sandwiches I was making with leftovers. In recent months I have found myself scrutinizing labels so much more carefully and paying attention to the flyers. Many of my friends are also noting that they are cutting back due to rising costs.
As I walked through the store, I noticed many people standing in the meat section, looking at the prices on the package and then leaving that spot without purchase. The action of not filling the cart speaks loudly.
We now have a shortage on certain children's medications that have been relied upon for decades. Rising respiratory illness is a contributing factor to the empty shelves. This is not something I have seen in my lifetime. I have lived through recessions, but I don't ever recall seeing empty shelves in the drug store when it comes to medications. At the start of the pandemic, there were issues with people hoarding toilet paper, and then for a while you couldn't find yeast anywhere. Years ago our country had to give out ration cards during times of war. In some ways, we are seeing history repeat and I hope we don't end up in that situation again.
When times are changing, we need to adapt to the change. Perhaps we need to think twice before we "stock up" on items. Are we taking too much at one time? If I take those three extra items, will it mean that someone else will do without? If I don't have extras, do I take the risk my children may not get the essentials that they need? These are all difficult questions, but in the end we have to remember that we are all in this world together. It might be time to slow down, have a look at what's really important, and perhaps create a different plan for the upcoming year.
No matter how you approach it, remember to be kind, and don't take it out on the front line workers. It is not the fault of the cashier that the shelves are empty, and the pharmacist can't wave a magic wand to bring in extra medications. Help your neighbors and friends, and focus on what is positive in our world.
Here is a link to this week's podcast where I touch base on this topic. If you have earbuds you can listen to episodes while you do house chores or work in the yard/shop. I listen on my android phone and my iPad.
Audio Episode: https://www.lindysaudiocafe.com/50-changing-times-rising-costs-empty-shelves-helping-others/
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1wPPDK27s5uG6N2ilaHxY5?si=980200404b0b4588
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/50-changing-times-rising-costs-empty-shelves-helping/id1597496953?i=1000587162448
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