To fill up, or not to fill up; that is the question

Today is May 15th; the day that many hope will live in infamy. This is the day that we're all supposed to not buy gas in the hopes that the large oil corporations will get the message, and start moving to decrease how much we're forking over at the pump.

Will this work? Very, very difficult to say. After all, the oil companies don't get the revenue from their operations on a daily basis, so they may not even notice for a couple of days or a week. Even if they do notice, how big of a difference will it be? Don't forget, these are the guys that clap each other on the back and celebrate billion-dollar profits by lighting cigars with $1,000 dollar bills. Repeatedly they've demonstrated that they care little for the plight of the "little people" (i.e. you and me), and are more concerned with stuffing their Armani suits with more of our money. With gas prices rising to nearly $3.50/gallon in some areas, this won't be a problem. You see, they truly have us by the short 'n' curlies. We need their product to function; without it, getting to work, the store, the beach, etc. becomes a massive chore. We are a society of drivers; our legs are used for little more than pushing the pedals to make the car go and stop. Walking has become recreational; not something used for traveling.

That being said, I'm all for this type of action. Don't fill up today. Avoid the gas stations. Save some money. But don't be surprised if nothing happens. After all, it's just one day of you not buying gas.

Take it a step further. Make a greater impact. Take action for more than one day; do something to make a lasting impression. Start walking or biking more. After all, do you really need to drive one mile to the video store? Walking or biking would help save you money on gas and, as an added side benefit, help you improve your health.

This is, of course, just my two cents worth. That, and another $3.28 will buy you a gallon of gas...