The Tank Can't Be Full All the Time

          As July 4^th quickly approaches I ask . . . where has the summer gone? And when are the local fireworks? And then this year, especially, when are the gas prices going to jump? I brace for the rising prices at the pump. I’ve got a few road trips to see family soon. I’ve been watching the increasing unrest in the Middle East and the holiday weekend. And, I admit, I’ve been trying to time my Kroger Fuel Points. Bending an ear to the local and national news. Perking up every time I hear something about crude oil or an increase in federal taxes on fuel. I’ve even been making mental notes and comparing the gas station postings in neighboring towns making sure I get a full tank before the spike. A tad obsessive, I agree.

            But is there any doubt the price of gas will go up? Do you remember when gas was under $2? It wasn’t that long ago. I speculate it’ll rise quite a bit and very soon. I’ve been trying to keep my gas tank full in my mid-size SUV- that by the way- gets terrible gas mileage. (I know I should have a smaller vehicle, but driving what I have does make me feel safer. No tiny smart car for me.) What I’ve learned lately is that keeping a full tank, or trying to anyway, will drive you crazy. Sometimes my gas gauge reads half-full and obviously sometimes it reads near empty.

            Today, my gas tank is on the negative side of half-way. Literally and figuratively. Sometimes you have to give yourself permission for things not to be perfect. In my case, I need to be okay with the fact my tank isn’t completely full. I know my vehicle won’t run out of gas. I’ll get fuel some way, somehow and I’ll fill up before I need to. And I know that my energy level and happiness will bounce back as well. Don’t get me wrong— I think you need to keep an eye on that measuring apparatus, but don’t over analyze if it isn’t all the way full. You’ll fill up before you reach empty. (Even if you have to pay a few more cents.) And the same is true for life— you’ll bounce back before you hit bottom. So the take away— be aware, but not obsessive. The Tank Can’t Be Full All the Time.

  But may your tank be more full than not . . . at least most of the time:)