Finding the empty roll without a refill in arm’s each. (Provided photo — Diane Chase)

I understand that in a family, we all take on specific roles. My husband will remove the garbage while I balance items in an overflowing bin rather than trek the full trash bag outside. My unassigned responsibility is refilling and replenishing: It can be hand soap, toilet paper, paper towels or tissues. If some container needs restocking, I am always the one at the end of the roll. I’m not suggesting I’m the only person in my family to put soap in the bathroom. I feel like I’m always the one who discovers there isn’t a backup available at the most inconvenient times, if you get my drift.

My home tasks are filtering into my outside life. I go to a public restroom and scramble for toilet paper. I go to wash my hands, and the soap dispenser is empty. I’m not placing any blame on any workers. Anyone in the retail or service industries rarely has time to use the facilities, let alone intuitively know when items need replenishment. The issue is when a long line of customers can’t tell an employee that the bathroom needs a bit of business.

The other part of my brain isn’t ready to accept that perhaps the same long line of people has decided paper and soap are optional. Even my children aren’t free-ranging to that extent. No, It seems to be a matter of “It’s not my job.” I’m not suggesting that a customer clean up after a stranger; even workers don’t enjoy the process. I’ve never understood why someone won’t help a business by simply replenishing the paper or at least notifying an employee if soap is needed. I’m not suggesting for anyone to be condescending or rude. Good grief. It’s just toilet paper. Most people in the U.S. are familiar with its use.

I may be nit-picking, but seemingly small actions can make a difference in someone else’s day. We can help someone out even though it’s not our job. We can make things a bit easier for the next person in line. Just taking a moment to let workers know something needs doing may make their day easier. It’s always nicer to fix something before it’s a nuisance. My character is flawed and is off to balance items on top of the garage bin while restocking, refilling and replenishing. No one’s perfect.