I stopped at Sheetz (a local convenience store/gas station) today to get a pack of cigarettes. While I was there, I encountered what I think must have been one of the world's biggest assholes. It seeems that this man was quite upset that gasoline prices had risen to three dollars a gallon. It seems that he didn't have enough money with him to make his purchases and fill his gas tank. He was screaming at the poor cashier about it as though she personally was responsible for raising said prices and ruining his day. I have to wonder what planet he has been living on for the past few days. Certainly it has been on the news for quite a while that the effects of Katrina would be causing raipd rises in the price of gasoline...and on the internet...and in the general conversation of nearly everyone I know. I felt bad for the clerk, and joked with her about him after he left. She seemed to feel a little better after that. What an idiot!
While in the parking lot I saw him (and heard him) once more. Yes, he was still ranting about the gas prices to any and all who would hear. I look at the vehicle he was driving. A goddamned SUV with a big old V8 engine. I'd like to offer him this little bit of advice. Trade in that pile of crap for something a bit more fuel efficient, hon, 'cos gas prices won't be going down for quite a while. And while you're at it, count your blessings. You live in Pennsylvavia. You still have your home, and your gas guzzling SUV. You know where your wife and children are. You are very lucky indeed. Stop and think about the folks who live in New Orleans. Now go home, shut up, grab a little more cash and donate it to someone who is going to help those people! Compared to what has happened to them, rising gas prices are nothing. Allow me to repeat myself, Get a grip!
