Deodorant Introspection

My deodorant is almost gone, and it seems that the stores I usually patronize might not have my one and only exclusive favorite in stock. I have been to three different stores, but I can't find mine.

I underestimated the strength of my preference until this week, when an actual possibility of change was brought to the forefront. I routinely buy the same deodorant, but I have previously considered it a gentle preference or a habit. I did not realize how much it has become a part of me. Upon acknowledging the absence of my usual variety, it occurred to me that a person with common sense would simply purchase another scent. 

Not I. I went to another store instead. And another. I became anxious when I thought of the real possibility that Ban might have discontinued Sweet Simplicity. That's when I recognized that I was willing to go to great lengths to get my deodorant. I started to wonder why, and I began to ponder the genesis of my deep deodorant connection. 

It turns out that I have been using the same deodorant for twelve+ years. 

I grew up in a household where we usually just used whatever deodorant my mom bought, and she mainly stocked up on the cheap stuff. We never had "name brand" deodorant. 

One day my high school cross country coach received a giant box full of sample-sized Ban Sweet Simplicity deodorant, and she handed it out like candy. A dozen sweaty runners readily accepted the offering. It smelled so good and worked so well that after I had exhausted my supply, I purchased more, and I have never gone back. 

Ban's marketing worked. During my teenage years, a prime time of self-discovery and developing attitudes and preferences, they hooked me for life. Good on you, Ban.

Don't worry! After a quick online search, I found that my deodorant is still available. But I might buy a six pack just in case.