I went to the cashier with my items and paid for them. I didn't want to, but I did.
Is there some reason you wouldn't have paid for the items? You realize that's the norm, right?
I didn't have a choice because the cashier said I had to pay for the items before leaving the store.
You're supposed to pay for the things that you want. That's the way society works. If you can't afford something, that's just the hand you were dealt.
Well now I have less money. Our society is so messed up.
If you're unable to afford the items, that's your best option. Please don't consider theft, it's not worth it.