We talk much about the tools that go with the prepper mindset. And unlike what some may believe (or wish to believe,) it isn't always "all talk." People really do have EDC ("every day carry") items that are on them, even at home. Many of us also work skills, like bush crafting, first aid, wood or metal crafting, even forging. The just-in-case bag is also a very real thing, if going farther than a comfortable walk home.

We get so used to being who we are, having the things we have, and thinking as we do, that stepping away from any of that is like a swift punch to the bread basket. It hurts, we know that things happen, little things, big things, or just personal things, but things happen.

Today, I stepped away. It took premeditated effort and a huge act of will. I went out the front door with bank card, driver's license, phone (I might be crazy, but I ain't stupid) and car key. I wore simple shorts, t-shirt, and flip-flops ("shower shoes" to some of us.) I joined the herd for 20 minutes.

I was only going to a convenience store a couple miles away, and in a fueled up, air-conditioned vehicle. But the weight of things that would normally be in my pockets was MISSED.

There was a purpose to this, if I made the same run out at 10pm to get children's tylenol or something similar, and the world happened to crash right then, how would I look at those two miles differently? Or the items in the store? What advice would I give someone else in the store, or anyone who might be walking farther?

Fortunately, it's Texas, so bottled water and convenience-store quality (LOL) folding knives were in abundance. But I also looked at the candy, foods, disposable items, those pathetic little first aid kits with a few sizes of bandaids, and if your're lucky, a couple of other items.

I also bought a coke, and had to ask for their bottle opener (imported Mexican coke, real sugar, way different feel than a corn-syrup drink.) I said "thank you" when I handed it back.

Given the area and the time of day, I knew the store would be near empty. The road outside also. It didn't much reduce the sensation of oddness, but it helped.

I now have a completely different view of that store, just like I'm reminded of how I see the river when we're cut off from town, and how I see the towns near me, when they are dysfunctional.

All in, I learned something today, it's just difficult to adequately describe what I learned, and how I am changed by it.