Rising Prices - One Thing You Can Do


By Dr. Glenn Mollette

Reports are pointing to an 8.9% raise for Social Security recipients. While it won't feel like enough, it may buy you a sack of groceries or a tank of gasoline. This is a big maybe on the gasoline as California reports prices of over $8 per gallon.

Some of our government leadership is crying because Saudi Arabia is cutting their oil production by 2 million barrels a day. This means less oil for everyone in the grand oil supply pool. I don't understand why anyone in our government would want to do business with the Saudis.

Buying oil from Saudi Arabia, Venezuela or any foreign entity is crazy. Why don't we use our own oil? I'm all for green energy but we aren't quite there yet. Make electric cars and drive them. Utilize solar energy and else anything that we can to help preserve this planet and its resources. Regardless, our country still needs oil. As long as we need oil, it would be wiser and much more cost effective to use our own oil. Put Americans back to work drilling our oil and selling it to foreign countries.

Our government has been draining our own oil reserve to try to keep the price of gasoline down. This doesn't seem to be working very well. Plus, it puts our country at risk. When China and Russia decide to attack us, we need to be able to put fuel in our jets and ships. That would not be a good time to have to go back to Saudi Arabia and beg for oil.

We should utilize a full arsenal of energy from electric cars and a grid to supply the power. Utilize our oil, wind, natural gas and coal. Once our country can do everything without oil or coal, then we can move on from those resources. Being dependent on getting them from foreign nations doesn't make sense, especially when we have the resources.

A loaf of bread will eventually cost Americans their 8.9% Social Security increase. Ukraine has been one of the world's leading providers of wheat. Having Russia in control of Ukraine, a major source of the bread supply, along with their major supply of natural gas is bad news for the world.

The Crimea bridge that was recently bombed between Russia and Ukraine should have been bombed on day one by Ukrainians. Ukraine must do whatever it takes to thwart Russia's ongoing destruction of their country. The news has been filled with fear that Russia will go nuclear in their efforts. When the nations start hurling nuclear bombs you won't need to worry about gas, groceries and cost of living adjustments because this planet can only take so much.

Keep in mind there is still something you can do to make a difference - vote. Clear your calendar for voting. If you don't vote then don't complain about our government, inflation, rising interest rates, gasoline prices and more. I know it doesn't feel like your one vote matters, but it truly counts. The only way you can bring about change is to clear your schedule, take the time, and vote.

Dr. Glenn Mollette is a graduate of numerous schools including Georgetown College, Southern and Lexington Seminaries in Kentucky. He is the author of 13 books including Uncommon Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.


More Resources


03/26/2024
New Robinhood Credit Card Will Earn 3% Back on Most Purchases - NerdWallet
The Robinhood Gold Card won't have an annual fee, but to get the card you must be a Robinhood Gold member, which costs $5 a month as of this writing.


more info


03/26/2024
3 Ways AI Could Transform Your Insurance Policy - NerdWallet
As insurers use artificial intelligence to make better predictions, AI technology could spur major changes for insurance customers. Learn more about what to expect.


more info


03/26/2024
Taryn Phaneuf, Lead Writer - NerdWallet
Taryn Phaneuf is a lead writer at NerdWallet. She previously spent more than a decade reporting on business, education and public policy for local news outlets.


more info


03/26/2024
Financial News - NerdWallet
NerdWallet reporters bring you the latest in financial news, with a focus on what it means for your wallet.


more info


03/26/2024
Lottery Pool? Take These Precautions Before Diving In - NerdWallet
A lottery pool can be a thrilling way to socialize with coworkers. But if luck strikes, the stakes can be a lot higher. Here's how to avoid legal tangles.


more info


03/26/2024
Latest FAFSA Error Affects Aid for 200K, Offers for Everyone Else - NerdWallet
The Education Department miscalculated the financial need of roughly 200,000 dependent students who submitted FAFSAs before March 21 — nearly 15% of processed forms. Those students could get less aid than they expect, and everyone else might face further delays.


more info


03/26/2024
What’s at Stake as the Supreme Court Hears an Abortion Pill Case? - NerdWallet
The U.S. Supreme Court is hearing oral arguments in FDA v. Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine, a case that could limit access to mifepristone.


more info


03/26/2024
Best Balance Transfer Credit Cards of March 2024 - NerdWallet
Save money while getting out of debt by doing a balance transfer: Moving debt to a card with a 0% introductory interest rate and low fees.


more info


03/26/2024
Best 0% APR and Low Interest Credit Cards of March 2024 - NerdWallet
Using a credit card with an introductory 0% APR period can save you big money when financing a major purchase. See all of our expert recommendations.


more info


03/26/2024
Best Cash Back Credit Cards of March 2024 - NerdWallet
Cash back is the most flexible credit card reward, since you can use it for anything. Our list will help you find the perfect card for the way you spend.


more info


03/26/2024
New Breeze Airways Credit Card Takes Flight With Up to 10X Back - NerdWallet
Airline also launches Breezy Rewards, the airline’s loyalty program, which supercharges rewards earned with the credit card.


more info


03/25/2024
Buying Life Insurance if You're Transgender - NerdWallet
Your gender identity doesn’t impact your eligibility for life insurance, but there are a few things to be aware of when you apply. Learn more now.


more info


03/25/2024
Egg and Chocolate Prices Are Hopping — Just in Time for Easter - NerdWallet
Bad weather and disease are straining the supply of cocoa. Meanwhile, another outbreak of bird flu is pushing up egg prices again.


more info


03/24/2024
Jae Bratton, Lead Writer - NerdWallet
Jae Bratton is a writer on the credit cards team at NerdWallet.


more info


03/24/2024
Mega Millions, Powerball Jackpots Near Combined $2 Billion - NerdWallet
The Mega Millions jackpot is now $1.1 billion, while Powerball has grown to $865 million. Mega Millions will be drawn on Tuesday night; Powerball on Wednesday.


more info


03/23/2024
Government Shutdown Threat Finally Put to Rest — For Now - NerdWallet
Congress missed its midnight deadline, but shortly thereafter approved the final set of appropriations in a $1.2 trillion spending package. The last-minute deal prevents a government shutdown that would have furloughed government workers.


more info


03/22/2024
Alaska Access: The New Subscription Service from Alaska Airlines - NerdWallet
Like its existing Flight Pass subscription, Alaska Access could be a good deal for frequent Alaska flyers looking to get the best deals with the airline.


more info


03/20/2024
American Airlines To Add Streaming and Free Wi-Fi - NerdWallet
American Airlines says it will be the first airline to offer video streaming capabilities on its entire mainline fleet. It is also offering free Wi-Fi with ads.


more info


03/20/2024
Fed Chair Powell: Rate Cut Risks Are ‘Two-Sided’ - NerdWallet
For the fifth time in a row, the Federal Reserve paused the federal funds rate at 5.25%-5.50% as Americans continue to wait for lower rates to cut costs on mortgages, credit cards and other loans.


more info


03/20/2024
Tailpipe Emission Rules Give Automakers More Time to Ramp Up EVs - NerdWallet
New stricter rules for vehicle emissions are expected to roll out more slowly than initially proposed last year, which gives automakers more time to beef up electric vehicle stock.


more info


03/20/2024
Powerball Hits $750M as Mega Million Jackpot Nears $1B - NerdWallet
The estimated Mega Millions jackpot is $977 million, while Powerball has grown to $750 million. Drawings are Friday and Saturday respectively.


more info


03/18/2024
How Is the Economy Doing? - NerdWallet
The state of the economy is generally strong and inflation is slowing down, but still remains elevated. The Federal Reserve is looking at key economic indicators to signal it’s time to cut rates.


more info


03/18/2024
Caitlin Mims, Content Mangement Specialist - NerdWallet
Caitlin Mims is a content management specialist on the credit cards team at NerdWallet. She has covered credit cards, credit scores and retirement planning.


more info


03/15/2024
What the Big Realtors Settlement Means for Home Buyers and Sellers - NerdWallet
A landmark legal settlement between home sellers and the real estate industry could complicate negotiations, let home sellers keep more of the sales proceeds, and require buyers to negotiate how their agents would be paid.


more info


03/15/2024
Biden’s Battle Against Junk Fees Turns to Colleges, Student Loans - NerdWallet
The Biden administration, in its efforts to curb junk fees, is proposing eliminating origination fees for federal student loans in addition to other fees that college students pay.


more info



More Personal Finance Information:

Related Articles


How To Get Ahead On A Low Income
Do you struggle from week to week trying to make ends meet? Are you consistently going without things that you really wish you could afford? Well I have some possible and practical solutions to your dilemma:1. TIPS TO HELP YOUR BUDGET STRETCH FURTHER.
Want Your Savings to Earn a Higher Rate of Return? Try Internet Banking
Doesn't it seem like the only impressive numbers we've seen this summer are the digits on the thermostat and the unaffordable prices of homes? Real estate has been excruciatingly hot for the past few years, but getting in the market now puts you in the high-risk category for a heat stroke if the market decides to cool off this year.So if a real estate induced stroke doesn't appeal to you and the stock market's roller coaster ride gives you motion sickness, it's very likely that you as a health-conscious investor are sitting on a stash of cash collecting an anemic rate of interest.
Saving Money On Gasoline For Your Automobile
The gas that we fill our tanks with every week adds up to be quite an expensive bill over the months and years. Thirty dollars a week in gas adds up to over $1500 a year.
Planning Your Financial Future
Millions of people give a lot of thought to financial planning but get frustrated and give up before ever making any progress. Making yourself aware of the most common reasons people fail to make a viable financial plan is the first step in reaching your financial goals.
Knowing Me, Knowing You: Why ID Protection Plans Are Flawed For Fraud
ID theft is a major consumer concern, though there is apparently much confusion about proactive protection initiatives and apparently safe and unsafe spending behaviour. For example, many consumers remain reluctant about shopping online, but they may still give out personal details over the phone in a cold call, or they may have redundant or dormant accounts and financial products which are susceptible to fraud.
Should You Borrow From Your 401(k) Account?
If you have a 401(k) account, it can be very tempting to borrow from your account especially when your balance is very high and a loan could easily pay off existing debt, fund a home purchase, or pay for college tuition. Before you make the decision to borrow money, there are several things you must keep in mind to avoid risking your funds.
Reporting Identity Theft
Would you know what to do if you suspect that your personal information had been stolen and used by thieves to open new accounts? It's important that you take the right actions to clear your name as quickly as possible.In 2005, the laws were changed to allow anyone to review their credit report yearly without having to pay a fee.
One Income Source Is Not Enough!
My personal opinion is that in today's new economy, it is wise to have multiple income streams. Reliance on one income source poses a risk to individuals, entrepreneurs, and even large corporations.
Save Money on Groceries: Part I
One universal of humanity, no matter who you are or where you come from, you have to eat. Unless you grow your own food, you will have to go to the grocery store to get it.
Estate Planning Basics
You have probably accomplished a great deal with your life. Over the years you have worked, planned and saved.
What Happens if You Die Without Making a Will
If you die without making a Will in the UK, the state will decide who gets what and how much, so those who you would want to benefit may get far less than you hoped.Your estate (your property and all belongings) are frozen and become subject to the law of intestacy.
How To Reap The Rewards With Rewards Programs
Recently, many of these loyalty rewards programs have come to the realization that they must change how they put these programs together if they are going to increase their share of the market.One way that has changed over the years is how reward programs have started linking up with various partners to offer more types of rewards for it's members.
Saving Money - Are You Doing Enough?
It is estimated that we, as consumers, waste an average of 30% of our paychecks on items we don't need or pay way too much for the items we buy. Since 1990, spending is up 30% and debt is up an astounding 80%.
The Magic Of Compound Interest
Christians are called to be good stewards of God's resources. A steward can be described as someone who manages the resources of another.
Creating A Household Budget
Creating a budget can be a very difficult task. Although we as consumers know that we need to pay our bills, buy our necessities, and put money away for savings, we don't really know how to start.
Developing a budget? Watch out for Those Budget-Bursting Gremlins
If you've developed a household budget to get your spending back in line or to just reduce stress, good for you! Creating and sticking to a budget isn't easy by all means. But it represents the best way by far to manage your finances so you can relax and worry about other things.
Simple Ways to Save Money
Things are so expensive these days. We seem to be hearing, and saying, that a lot lately at the gas pump, in the grocery store and especially when paying bills.
Budgeting Your Way to Financial Freedom
Financial freedom cannot be achieved without budgeting. Budgeting involves tracking your sources of income and more importantly tracking your expenses.
Take Control and Master Your Kitchen
Those who keep a watchful eye on where their money is spent, have long conquered the kitchen woes. No last minute panic trips to the market.
Are You Ready To Be Fired?
Your boss has just informed you that your department is being reduced by two and you are fired. After he leaves, what are you going to do?This is not about finding a job it's about being prepared for financial change.