independence

Americans like talking about independence and do enjoy being independent. Having a car is one of the aspects of independence - you go wherever you want whenever you want... But is it really independence when they cannot do things without cars? Even cities are built in a way so you cannot really go shopping without a car, you cannot get to the park or school without car or bus even if you live within one mile from that place. How independent is that?
And with the prices of gasoline going up this "independence" is increasing in price. Yeah, independence is a valuable thing!

And as for driving vs. walking - my friend was almost dead yesterday after our 2.5 hours walk.. all he wanted is to rest or get in his car and drive instead. And what about enjoying nice weather and walking around places where walking is possible and permitted?