Are we great yet?

 Gas just hit $5/gal where I live. Diesel is $6/gal. Hey, are we great yet? 

The same day, I received an email about a general strike on Friday, May 1.   No work, no school, no shopping. 

I have friends who can’t afford to put gas in the car to travel downstate to see family and friends. 

I also know people who can’t keep their kids home from school because they can’t miss work. If they do keep their kids home and must go to work, they might need someone to watch the kids and that costs money.  Money that is already squeezed by increased costs. 

Many people I know simply can’t afford to take a day off, as their wages cover essentials like rent or mortgage payments, groceries, and fuel. Without mandated paid time off, missing work means losing pay.

I believe strongly there is a place for a general strike. I also want to acknowledge those who can’t afford, for whatever reason, to miss school or work or need to shop.