Bags: 5 cents

I have a theory - well, I have a lot of theories - and this one isn't totally half-baked.

If sales people would ask first, before assuming that 'everyone' wants a bag, then a lot fewer bags would be consumed.

I have noticed that when I am asked if I would like a bag by a retail salesperson, it makes me think: "Oh, no thank you", and then I dig out my stashed bag from my purse.

But, there have been times when I haven't been paying attention during the checkout process, and I am handed my item already inside a plastic bag. 99% of the time I go through the ritual of: blushing - apologizing for not remembering to say something sooner - taking the item out of the bag - handing the bag back to the cashier (and I wonder if in it's now-rumpled state it is simply tossed in the trash) and then continuing on my way.

Once or twice, with screaming child or two attached to my body, and requiring about three extra sets of arms, I have simply sighed, grabbed the offending bag, and exited the store, hoping to escape before an erupting temper tantrum escalates.

I never thought it would happen here on "the Rock", but Manitoulin is moving ahead with the changing times, and businesses are actually starting to charge for plastic bags. Incredible, I know - really!

I'm sure the charge will make some people stop and think, "Do I really need this bag?"

Now if only we could get to the point where there are no plastic bags at all - THAT would be a wonderful world.

I imagine it is coming....after all, I never thought we would ever make it to the bag charge - so, hey, ANYTHING is possible!

(or charge $1 for a plastic bag - THAT would make some heads swivel and some mouths twitch, now wouldn't it!!!)