Rainy Day

What is a rainy day? Well, besides from the wet precipitation falling from the sky, it used to be a day that people save for. I am, of course, referring to the phrase “Save it for a rainy day.” However, a lot of us do not have the rainy day fund available anymore because it is being used for gas. The price of gas is set to hit record highs this summer at about $4.00 per gallon. There are even rumors of that reaching about $5.00 per gallon. The price of gas does not only effect a commute to work or school, but it also effects the food we eat and the items we buy.

The gas problem is not just something that affects stomachs after a spicy meal. It is a serious problem that is putting many hard working Americans into debt. A farmer has to milk the cows, tend the crops, etc. Well, what the farmer used to be paying to put gas into his crop duster is a lot more than what it used to be. Because of this, he has to use more of his sales to maintain his occupation. Because of this, he has to charge more for products to make up for the dividend. For example, a $1.50 cent gallon of milk is now at over $3.00.
Here is another scenario: the fisherman needs fuel to run his boat. What the cost of gas used to be enabled him to take his boat out for under $300 a day. Now that gas prices are so ridiculously high, he needs to spend approximately $1000 a day. Think of a tuna sandwich we eat for lunch. That product now is being sold at outrages prices because the manufactures have to make up for the money they are loosing in paying for fuel. This effects everything that uses gas in it’s manufacturing. Form the truck drivers who run on diesel to the soccer mom’s who drive to the game.

How much does the average American spend on gas? Well, the question is not how much is spent on gas, but rather how much is not set aside for savings. The average American worker makes $40,000 per year. Out of that, they spend about $800 on gas. Therefore, about 5% of their yearly income goes to gas. In the corporate world, it is recommended that approximately 6% of a person’[s income should be put aside for savings, in particular, 401K. If 5% is going to gas and 6% is going to retirement, how much is actually being saved for that rainy day? Do the math.

However, there is a solution in sight. This solution may not be the easiest solution, but it is the best to stick it back to the oil companies who are putting their great-grandchildren through college at your expense. Do not drive. One day out of the week, loose your keys and do not even think about getting into an automobile. Wouldn’t it be glorious knowing that you are screwing the people who are screwing you because they think that they can? The gas and oil industry would loose billions and would have to lower the prices to accommodate. If the prices rise, spend two days without your vehicle. Car pool. Do whatever it takes to not drive anywhere. By conserving on gas, the oil industries would loose a fortune. The problem is that it is too much of “inconvenience” for people to give up their 10 miles a gallon Hummers for one day in order to save the ones driving POS’s a little extra spending money.

So, gas is going up and savings are going down. Farmers are getting screwed as well as the average Joe while Oil Tycoons are sitting their laughing at the ants they have under their microscopes. Next time you fill up, think about not doing it as often. If not, take that rain check, cash it, and fill up your car because things are not getting much better.