ALT-28 What you can do to Save Money on Gas
When presented with the topic on what to do to save money on gas, most people look at conservation which may include carpooling, driving less, not running the air conditioner, driving slower, or driving an automobile that is more gas efficient. Shopping around for the best price is another favorite option. However, I would like to take the topic much deeper than that. My challenge to you is to get involved.
Involved? You may be thinking, "Involved in what?" I'll get around to that in a moment! For now, let's concentrate on why gas has gotten to be so expensive.
Some people blame the oil companies while others point the finger at the war in Iraq. Gas stations, the government, the economy, and the concept of price fixing also get some slack. But, what really is the problem?
I once asked my uncle who retired from the industry why gas had gotten so high. Being the wisecracker that he is, I didn't get a straight answer. He said that they had to go up to support the retirees' extravagant lifestyles.
When I was doing research for a political article and I ran across President George W. Bush's debate from the 2000 campaign. In it, he mentioned the desire to explore for oil in America and to develop a hemispheric energy policy to decrease our dependency on foreign sources of crude oil. When discussing these options with friends and family, the concern for a lack of oil refineries in America was mentioned.
Most people, me included, don't have a clue about why gas has gotten so expensive. Everyone is looking for someone or something to blame for the financial strain that they are going through. That is natural, but it will not bring a resolution.
What brings a resolution? Getting involved!
Our country (the United States) is a constitutional republic that is established as a representative democracy and together we stand. Most citizens that are of age are entitled to vote for representatives and that "duty" needs to be taken more seriously.
When something affects all of us, like rising gas prices, we are entitled to find out why and we should do exactly that. Moreover, we should stand together to do something about it.
The first step is to research the issue. Second, to develop a concept; what do you really believe would provide a resolution? Third, evaluate candidates concerning their view of the issue, you might even support their campaign. Fourth, go to the polls and vote as an informed voter.
Day to day, we examine the actions we can take to save money on gas. However, wouldn't it better to look for a long-term solution?
