If we could plan on low prices, we in the U.S. might continue our wasteful ways. But we have had a taste of what the rest of the planet pays for gasoline. And I did not like it. Nor did the commercial vehicle operators in this country. The cost of diesel may have put numerous small businesses in the grave.

I nearly turned down a paying job not long ago due to high fuel costs. Now that prices have returned to a much lower level, I can afford to drive my eleven years old Dodge Grand Caravan that gets up to 29 mpg once stable at 55 mph without air conditioning.

My next new or used vehicle will have to get better fuel economy in order for me to travel when prices soar again to $4.00/gallon. It is simply a question of time when that will occur.