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It is what it is
One of American's favorite pastimes seems to be griping about the price of gasoline. Besides the weather and sports, the price of gas usually falls into the list of topics for small talk and everyday conversation.
And it drives me crazy.
If you give most people a few minutes to express their thoughts on the price of gas, they will tell you how cheap everything used to be, how the past was better, and how the forces that be are conspiring to screw over the everyday consumer.
This is all incredibly stupid.
For one, focusing on the past and nostalgia adds zero value. Gas could have been a nickel last night and $5 today, but it changes nothing. We must adapt. Griping only serves to bring down the mood and annoy the people around you.
The factors that determine the price of gas
If you stay current on national and global economics, you'll know that the price of gas is complex.
Most oil is sourced from OPEC countries that shamelessly form a cartel to limit supply to increase the price. Saudia Arabia, Kuwait, UAE, Russia, etc., are the main players. They get together every now and then, chat, discuss mega-yachts, and then adjust production targets. Their goal is…