Unfortunately my post a couple of months ago about $4 gas this summer is coming to fruition.
I’m curious to see what people are doing differently with their driving as a result of the increase. Feel free to post some tips here to too.
We should also be aware and alarmed about the negative repercussions of oil alternative corn ethanol development. There are many people in the world who are really suffering due to the increase in food prices. It takes 500 pounds of corn to make 13 gallons of ethanol. Other forms of ethanol are much better - sugar cane for example - but due to government tariffs we can’t import that from Brazil. We need to pray for wisdom for our leaders to make better decisions about these things.
Oh - and though the “windfall profit tax” for oil companies like Exxon is getting a lot of hype by politicians and media these days - I’m not sure we should be buying it. Yes Exxon made 40 billion dollars in 2007, but they also paid 30 billion dollars in taxes. The windfall tax was tried in the early 80’s, and it accomplished a reduction in domestic oil production. That sort of Robin Hood taxation doesn’t work - especially since countries we can’t tax own 80% of the oil reserves. Taxing Exxon more will not result in lower prices at the pump. Higher taxes here won’t significantly slow down the economic growth of China and India.
I’m not optimistic for long term relief because political decisions will be made with the short term and votes in mind. My best advice is to adjust your budget numbers (and or driving habits) for $4 gas this year and be prepared for the possibility of higher in 2009….think $4.50 to $5 a gallon. Goldman Sachs (a bunch of very smart people) predict a barrel of oil will be $150 to $200 in 2009.
i know you have seen the increase in food prices at the grocery store…..much of which is related to ethanol and oil. Once again with the budget - there are choices - 1. adjust your budget 2. adjust your diet 3. adjust shopping and eating out habits 3. a combination of those.
While it is certainly not fun….consider what percent of your after tax money goes to food. Now consider that many people in the world spend 75 to 95 percent of their money on food expenses. Let’s pray for followers of Jesus to respond appropriately.
your thoughts?
This is funny - consider how much these items cost per gallon:
http://www.expertclick.com/NewsReleaseWire/default.cfm?Action=ReleaseDet...
The Evian water is the best…at $1.49 for 9 oz….$21 a gallon….for water! Should they pay a windfall profit tax…or how about the Nyquil or Pepto makers?
“He has shown you, O man, what is good:
And what does the LORD require of you?
But to do justly,
To love mercy,
And to walk humbly with your God.”
I know no one is going to want to hear this. Especially from someone who lived in Mexico and eats hot peppers and says, “they are delicious!” But, I would suggest simplifying your diet. Learn from some of the poorest people in the world how to save money. Mexican families traditionally have been sustained through beans, lentils, peas and corn for years. I would dare say that we could accuse them of being weak or frail. Most of them are in very good shape physiologically.
Hudson Taylor, the man who started “Inland China Mission”, commented that he found that he could simplify his diet by eating only oatmeal and rice with few variations and channel the vast majority of his money toward missions. So, that is my suggestion. Take it or leave it.
Simplifying your diet to consist mainly of produce grown locally is a great way to send a message. You can still get your nutrients, but the “carbon print” your leaving isn’t as substantial as when you buy from growers a nation away.
Also, seriously consider alternate modes of transportation. The BUS in Athens is a great way to support mass transit - they are going to run the buses anyway, they might as well be full of people. Also, walk or ride your bike to your local grocer. I’m in training the summer to ride my bike all the way to my work which is abut a 17mile trek round trip…..If I can do it, anyone can. If this isn’t feasible….car pool. Atlanta has a whole list of folks just waiting to be paired up with carpool buddies.
And as prices get higher on food stuffs and the like….stop buying things that aren’t necessities….helps save $$$.