Generally, the world comes in packages of two without attracting much attention. Unless it’s a bicycle built for two or a two dollar bill, there’s not too much hoopla made over double quantities.
However…
The world truly seems to be geared towards couples. I never noticed it before, but lately there have been numerous examples that have brought this to my attention.
A few weeks ago, I had my eyes checked and got new glasses. Of course, the office was having a” buy one, get one 50% off sale” on frames. We used to go together so we could take advantage of this kind of deal. Well, I didn’t need two pair (translation: couldn’t afford a 2nd pair), so that didn’t work out.
Then, I got the weekly sale ads in the mail. Coupon pages for Burger King and other eateries were filled with “buy one, get one free” offers. Yeah, just can’t get in the mood for two Whoppers, sorry.
And speaking of food – those of you who know me well, know that I have not cooked at all this year. Food options are starting to get a bit boring, so I’ve looked into those meal delivery services (the ones you just throw in the microwave). The packages are advertised with “per serving” prices, however, the smallest quantity of any meal is 2 servings…
And speaking of food, again…any time I am out to lunch or dinner with a member of the opposite sex, the wait staff automatically assumes that we are a couple and brings the check already added together. I now say “and I’ll be on my own check” at the end of my food order. I wish they’d at least ask like they do with groups.
Has anyone ever seen a table for one in a restaurant? Didn’t think so. One of the most awkward things I’ve had to get used to is waiting while the staff clears away the extra place setting, usually after asking if someone will be joining me. It’s just another reminder that I’m alone.
More food…try buying ONE pre-packaged cinnamon roll in the grocery store bakery. Or one of anything. Unless you want to go to the counter and ask for just one of an item, you’re stuck with an even number of everything. On the flip side, my store has those little packages of a half-dozen eggs. I always wondered who those were for.
I thought about going on a little vacation. I’d never been on a cruise; Dwight said he spent enough time on boats during his 6 years in the Navy, thank you very much. Well, now I can do that…except I have to pay double. They want cash from two bodies in each stateroom and they’re going to get it. That’s just how it is. Sure, I could always take a friend or something..but I don’t want to. Instead, I get to pay for a bed I won’t sleep in and food I won’t eat. Yay.
When I removed his vehicle from the auto insurance policy, the savings was rendered null and void by the loss of the multi-car discount. In a similar vein, my “employee + spouse” health insurance premium went down, but certainly not by half.
Besides the financial ramifications, nothing I’ve mentioned is a true problem for me, but I notice these things more now than I did when I was part of a couple. I don’t think single people are necessarily being discriminated against; the world just caters a little more to couples.
*sigh*