$19

I know. You're probably thinking, "What the heck kind of title is '$19'?!"

Well, Chester, let me explain. Today after work I needed gas, so I filled my tank. And $19 is how much I spent to fill it up.

I know. You're saying, "So what?!"

Well, again, let me explain.

I drive a 1998 Ford Escort SE. It has approximately a ten gallon gas tank. And over the 6+ years that I have now owned this car, I have NEVER spent more than $15 to fill my gas tank, even with the needle sitting on empty.

Until today, that is.

You see, gas in my area is currently, on average, about $2.20 a gallon, and I understand that we're actually a few cents below the national average. That's just scary. I mean, is there any reason to be grateful to be only paying $2.20 a gallon for gas. I sure don't think so.

Why is gas so expensive?

Could it be because oil has become more and more difficult to find and extract, thus increasing the price?

Could it be because Congress refuses to pass legislation mandating a higher MPG standard for all vehicles sold in the United States?

Could it be because the current President and Vice President of the United States are both former oilmen who will do absolutely nothing to harm the profits of the industry of which they are both former members?

Could it be because our civilization is addicted to gasoline as surely as a crack user is addicted to rock cocaine, and we will pay any price for gas, no matter how outrageous it is?

Could it be that the oil companies are raising prices simply because they can?

Could it be all of the above?

Bingo!

(Begin rant) Where is the outrage, people?! Do you enjoy getting fucked by the oil companies, for Christ's sake?! Why are you all bending over and taking it?! Do you like spending sixty fucking dollars to fill up the tank of your SUV?! Are you all truly so God damn dumb?! (End rant)

Let me say this very clearly so there is no misunderstanding:

WAKE THE FUCK UP!!!!!!!

The only way things are EVER going to change is if you get off your lazy asses and DO SOMETHING!!

Alas, I am merely a Voice in the Crowd. Sigh.

OK, I'm better now.