I’ve been an Amazon Prime customers since its early days, more or less. I hopped on the wagon as soon as I learned students can join for half the cost, and haven’t left since. Back then, I was in college and didn’t have a car, so I bought whatever I could from Mr. Bezos; not only was it convenient, more often than not it was also cheaper.
Those were the pre-‘Prime” days, so I had to wait a few days for my orders to arrive at my doorstep. And I was perfectly okay with that. And still am, as a matter of fact. Free two day shipping, along with inexpensive next day option, were pleasant surprises when they were added to my Amazon experience, kind of like when Prime Video was launched. TV shows and movies at no extra cost? Cool!
But they were never requirements for me to keep my Prime membership. And that was how I greeted the free next day shipping currently offered by Amazon. Heck, I didn’t even know it was happening until it was in full bloom! I especially appreciate that news because I’ve become disabled and need Amazon’s help with my shopping more than ever.
And that is ultimately what angers me about all these reports and journalists’ investigations into the horribly oppressive and unsafe working conditions in Amazon warehouses. These always start with the accusatory “Do you know what has to happen so you can have your Amazon package the next day?” As if I am solely to blame for whatever horrors are befalling Amazon warehouse workers daily. Do I deserve to feel guilty simply because I shop on Amazon? Is it fair to make people like me (I’m not unique, after all, as my father makes sure to remind me often) feel like shit for shopping online?
I want to make one thing very clear: I am in no way siding with Amazon, nor am I discrediting those reports on which many young reporters worked very hard. But Jeff Bezos’ never ending quest for ever more wealth is his and his alone. The man worth about, what is it these days, $20 Billion, can easily slow things down and make sure his warehouses and fulfillment centers fully comply with all safety regulations, and allow his workers to take a breath every once in a while.
Seriously, how much more money does anyone really need?
So gentle reader, and possible NPR reporter (it could happen!); next time you want to point your possibly journalistic finger at someone for the ills of consumerism and how people are suffering in its boney, bloody hands, point it at the top of the money heap, not at me here on the penniless bottom.
I have no problem waiting a few days for my underwear to arrive from Amazon.