Posted by
John Crutchfield on Thursday, July 31, 2008 8:50:49 AM
Heading into the third consecutive week of falling gas prices, Americans are breathing a collective sigh of relief. Though we may be feeling a little less pain at the pump, it would be foolish of us to think this is over. We'd be much wiser to recognize this latest gas gouge for what it really is - a preview of things to come.
In the midst of all the talk about energy alternatives, oil seems to have taken on a life of it's own, complete with survuval instincts and psychological makeup. It stalks, attacks, retreats and waits, regaining strength for the next opportunity to begin the cycle again. We've begun to see oil as something to be feared, like an enemy that has outmaneuvered us. But the enemy isn't oil. The enemy is foreign oil and the best short term defense is to become more self reliant by increasing our domestic oil supply.
Rolling over for the oil cartel means certain death. Too bad most house and senate democrats and some republicans seem to be OK with that. Thankfully, a growing number of Americans are beginning to disagree vociferously.
Energy policy driven by environmental radicals is increasingly being rejected on the reality of four dollar a gallon gas. That magic number seems to be the tipping point where consumers get mad. Having reached the threshhold at which we're willing to fight back, the oil threat has retreated slightly inviting us to stand down. If this sly enemy had a voice, it might be saying: "Hey, this was all a big misunderstanding. There's no need to start drilling. Everything is OK." I guess we're now supposed to think three buck gas is fine and there's no real need for a call to arms. Big mistake. This isn't a time to stand down. This is the time to stand up and grab your scabbard.
This thing, which has shown an ability to kill the host that gives it life, is like a cancer on America's backside. It may seem to be in remission, but this is not the time to relax. We need to continue to press our government to do the right thing for the sake of our economy and national security. This problem isn't going away and our best strategy is to advance while the enemy is backpedaling.
It's been noted here that the recent drop in oil prices is in part the result of President Bush lifting of the ban on offshore drilling. Others say a decrease in demand is the reason. Consumers have opted for staying closer to home rather than being fleeced at every gas station. That's fine too. It only further demonstrates the power of the free market.
Congress, so far, has refused to take the necessary steps to secure energy independence leaving American families seated squarely beneath this modern day "Sword of Damocles". They have forgotten that their power is granted by "consent of the people" and rebelled much the same way an adolescent disrespects parental authority.
I learned early on that an insolent child's attitude could be realigned with the stars through the power of a stinging backhand. That's what we need to deliver to entrenched Washington lifers living under our roof who continually resist the will of the people while lining their pockets with special interest loot. They need a slap that'll launch them into a different career.