Yesterday, my husband braved the belly of the beast AKA Costco, and experienced empty shelves where toilet paper used to reside, and an extensive line to simply enter the building. Here I go on a rather elaborate rant. Friends, hold my coffee.

You. Yes, I am talking to you. The one who insists on shopping weekly maybe everyday. The one who hoards things that people require on a daily basis. The one who literally hovers outside of the store, like a stalker, waiting for it to open. You are the problem. Because people see empty shelves, they panic. You did that. You are the source of wide-spread concern.

You are also making everyone work harder. From those truck drivers who deliver the products, to the people who stock the shelves, and then to the cashiers, you, the selfish human, are making them work harder. You are forcing them to be around crowds of people because YOU emptied the shelves. You are putting them at risk with your selfishness. When people can’t purchase what they normally do or see lines of empty shelves, they freak out. Scarcity morphs into fear. COVID-19 is serious and extremely contagious, and so is being an asshole.

Did you know that by purchasing those items that you don’t need, you are taking that away from an elderly customer, perhaps someone who is chronically ill (colitis for example), or perhaps a large family in dire straits? Do you want to be part of the solution or the problem? I have faith in you. Maybe you are in fear too. Let me share a little something with you. There is plenty of food and necessities to benefit everyone. Just stop going everyday and you will soon see the shelves full again. Resume your regular shopping trips. Oh, and can I point out that by being in public so much you are subjecting yourself and others to COVID-19. And for what? Hundreds of rolls of toilet paper. That’s trucked up (please substitute a big F instead of the T, if so inclined).

We could not get any toilet paper yesterday, for my 88-year-old mother. Fortunately, we have extra to supply her with, but what happens when our stash is low? I just don’t get it. Aren’t people suppose to be quarantined? WHY ARE YOU OUT? Get a hobby that doesn’t include grocery shopping.

I want to believe in the goodness of the human race, but this particular situation makes me insane. So, hear me now, there is enough for everyone. There is plenty of food, toilet paper, and anything else you might require, but those of you who are the problem, please listen. Stay home. Do a puzzle. Spend time with your family. We are going to be okay. This is temporary. Just breathe and for the love of God, stop being an asshole.