Billy Bathroom
by Will Bailey

Forced entry.
Knock, knock. Anybody home? Flush once for yes, twice for no. Of course I realize that if you actually flush twice you are lying, but now we’ve established that I can’t trust you, haven’t we? That’s valuable information that may become useful one day. For example, if I ever have you and your twin sibling cornered in an alleyway, and one of you is evil, I’ll know which one to shoot with my potato gun: they lying one. Wait, that logic seems a little fuzzy. NEVERMIND! Back to the intellectually stimulating and spiritually awakening subject matter at hand: single occupant public restrooms. They’re the worst! For my money, there is nothing more terrible than playing that game of social Russian Roulette known as Guess That Bathroom! The rules are simple: 1) Timidly approach your single occupant public restroom; 2) Listen for any signs of activity through the sound-proof government issued door; 3) Knock once quietly, then awkwardly scramble with two sloppier, slightly louder knocks; 4) Place your hand on the knob and open the door with your eyes closed as you pray to all that is holy nobody is On The Other Side. And the secret to this horrifying little game? Nobody ever wins. Especially if you are the unlucky employee responsible for cleaning the bathroom. That’s like showing up to work everyday not knowing whether there is a rabid wolverine in your closed door, windowless office. You just gotta kinda sorta hafta take the plunge, both figuratively and literally. Aren’t metaphors gross?

I just walk in boldly. If the door isn’t locked, it’s the other guy’s problem….right?
No, probably not. I’ll probably be scarred for life.
Also, yes, your metaphors are gross, but so very accurate as well. And for that, I’m grateful. Annnnd I sorta want to vomit.
Shoot first, knock later. That’s what I always say.
I’m pretty sure that’s what the L.A.P.D. says too.
This is why I always travel with my Mace 80115 Big Jammer Door Brace (available at your local Walmart). No need to worry about public potty breaks again. No one can walk in on you. Ever. Well, maybe if they’re riding an elephant.
Airport security must love you.
The worst is trying to stealthily try the door handle to see if it’s locked. You know, turning it ever so slowly so as to not spook the person inside. Which come to think of it is creepier than trying a normal turn. Maybe it’s just me*.
*not the first time I’ve though that today.
Haha yes. You wind up looking like a stealthy weirdo.
this is so true – there should be a little flag like they used to have on mailboxes to show whether it is occupied
I have a suggestion for you because i am old and love your posts–could you break it up into paragraphs–or would that mess up what you want your blog to look like? just wondering –I will keep reading no matter what – but I like white space –I think it is because I live in a house that is stuffed full of furniture
Toilet flags? Yes please.
How’s this?
great! love your blog btw
Thank you!
Ewwww
Sometimes the truth is revolting.