The Dreaded Weekly Chore

Well, another day, another dreaded trip to Wal-Mart.  I hate that place.  If you know me, you've probably heard me say that one or a hundred times.  Oh how I wish I was not dependent on that store!

Reuben is on a particularly long hiatus from his boilermaker work right now.  We still have a decent income coming in, but I've hit conservation mode.  So, Wal-Mart should be my friend, right?  I just don't understand why I cannot get out of that place without spending nearly $200!?!  Today, for instance, I went in with a strong will to not buy anything "extra."  I didn't even venture into the general merchandise side of the store.  I was headed for groceries!  The only two "extras" on my list were a much-needed lint roller and brown shoe polish.  I wouldn't consider either of these extravagant.  I think the two totaled something like $5.00.  My total bill for the day was still $173.76!  Why is this?  I even broke down and bought Great Value brand on several items that I normally wouldn't.  UGH!

I wish it were possible to boycott that place!  If I had an endless supply of money, I would give them up in a heartbeat.  I would spend twice the money at any other store available.  I realize that Sam Walton built this store as a true American dream.  It's an unbelieveable success story.  However, Wal-Mart is turning its back on America.  Have you noticed the disappearance of many grocery mainstays?  In their places you will find Great Value, with no alternative.  I fear this place is becoming a monopoly, and we are in its stranglehold.  They are cheaper.  There's no denying it.  In today's economy, we are forced to watch out for our personal finances.  We can't make the right choice, because the easy choice is so much more economical.  We are fueling the problem.  I, for one, am sick of it!  As soon as funds are flowing more freely in our home, I will be giving as much business to another store as possible.  If we could all just give one-third of our business to someone else, maybe Wal-Mart would be sent a message that we won't stand for their hostage-like treatment of the American consumer! 

Aaahhh!  I feel better now.  I will step down from my soapbox for now.