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Life is no longer that simple, nor does it need to be that complicated. We cannot go back to the horse and buggy days nor should we continue wasting resources, as we have in the past. My 1999 Chevy Suburban, with 100k miles, is now worth very little in terms of dollars. I have also purchased an older diesel Mercedes. My Suburban sits in the driveway most of the month while I am getting great fuel economy with my old Biodiesel Benz. On those occasions where I need to haul 9 people, all their gear and tow something, my trusty ol' Burb with the 44 gallon gas tank is ready for the job. It is long since paid for and only costs me an extra $40 per month to insure. Besides, if it is full of people, it is taking 2 other cars off the road! Both cars are very safe and serve their respective purposes.

Historically, extreme measures have never had a lasting effect. Yes Americans are finally feeling the well deserved pinch that the rest of the world has known for years. But taking all of the 6500 lbs road warriors to the crusher is not the answer either. The larger question is, are we are all so busy, we can't even remember why we bought an SUV to begin with? If we stayed home more, planned out vacations with our families and were more content with what we had, it would have a much more positive effect on our environment, our nation and our world. It would also save gas! By all means, if you don't use it or need it anymore, then dump the lead sleds. But take a long hard look at your life first. Remember back to those once-in-a-life time trips to Yellowstone, The Grand Canyon or even just a nearby campground. Chances are, those memories were made courtesy of the family truckster. Cars are just tools, not idols. No matter what size they are, they need to serve us, not the other way around.

Learn more about this author, Troy Williams.
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