Member-only story
Morality at the Gas Station
Should I insist on paying?
Nov 12, 2021
I have a bit of a vice. I like soda. Specifically, I drink way too much caffeine-free Diet Coke (aka chemical water). I know it’s not great for me, but it’s better than other vices I could pursue.
A local gas station is one of the few to offer this caffeine-free version. I go there whenever I can, refilling cups to keep the aspartame laced water relatively cheap.
The last two times I’ve gone, the person at the checkout has waved me and my refill through. No charge.
Considering how much money I’ve given them over the past few years, I really shouldn’t complain about free soda.
On the other hand, somebody is bearing that cost.
Now I don’t want to go back for fear that I’ll get my soda for free.
