The shopper was simply following the established system at Aldi to ensure they would have a cart for their next visit. The quarter deposit is there for a reason, and the shopper shouldn't be penalized for adhering to store policy. It's not the shopper's responsibility to subsidize others' lack of preparation or change.
This is a clear case of petty greed masked as adherence to policy. The shopper prioritized a mere quarter over a simple act of kindness and now cries foul because they faced social disapproval? The true cost here is the erosion of community spirit over pocket change.
While the shopper technically didn't break any rules, the situation highlights a lack of social grace. The Aldi system is designed for convenience, but human interactions often call for flexibility. The shopper's rigid adherence to the quarter system, while understandable, created unnecessary conflict and made them appear miserly. However, the other woman should have prepared a quarter in advance.