Don’t be fooled by drop in the bucket

Americans may be breathing a sigh of relief since learning the news about Chevron’s “massive” oil discovery in the Gulf of Mexico. This discovery will purportedly add 50 percent to the United States’ existing oil reserves.

Folks, breathe a little deeper still and follow this more complete perspective, told as a fable: A few guys, including “Joe,” obtained a case of beer and a six-pack and got together. They exclaimed, “It’s party time!”

First thing you know, they had drunk up the case of beer. Noticing that only a six-pack remained, Joe said, “We gotta go get some more beer.” However, all the stores in town were completely out of that beverage. Not to panic! Joe searched behind the sofa and excitedly announced, “I just found three beers!”

Al said, “Three beers! Man, we don’t just sip this stuff, we slug it down bigtime!”

Hank said, “Dang it! We can’t stop the party now. We need at least a couple more cases!”

Everybody else nodded in approval.

Here’s the supply situation:

Saudi Arabia still has more than two cases of beer.

Iraq and Iran each have a full case of beer left.

(And Iran doesn’t drink any beer at all).

Canada has one and a half cases remaining.

Kuwait has a case.

U.A.E. has a case.

Venezuela’s got three six-packs.

Russia’s got two six-packs.

Joe, Al, Hank and their pals quickly polished off their last nine beers. Then, they armed themselves and headed overseas.

John Lindstrom

Everett

Talk to us

> Give us your news tips.

> Send us a letter to the editor.

> More Herald contact information.

More in Opinion

People walk adjacent to the border with Canada at the Peace Arch in Peace Arch Historical State Park, where cars behind wait to enter Canada at the border crossing Monday, Aug. 9, 2021, in Blaine, Wash. Canada lifted its prohibition on Americans crossing the border to shop, vacation or visit, but America kept similar restrictions in place, part of a bumpy return to normalcy from coronavirus travel bans. (AP Photo/Elaine Thompson)
Editorial: Find respectful policy on tariffs, trade with Canada

Washington state depends on trade with Canada. The Trump administration’s belligerence is harmful.

toon
Editorial cartoons for Saturday, Feb. 21

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

Comment: Reform of tobacco taxes can fund response to its harms

Senate Bill 6129 better fits current products and directs revenue to public health work and research.

Comment: Cap on child care would harm families and employers

Leaving thousands out of a state child care program will be more costly to the state in the long run.

Comment: More taxes on health care won’t make state more affordable

Proposals in the Legislature could increase health care costs for workers and businesses.

Forum: Cuts to programs for vulnerable kids a costly bargain

Funding for developmentally disabled infants and toddlers reduces costs later in life. Cutting them makes no sense.

Forum: We have reached the peak of self-esteem’s self-assurance

Everybody daydreams of being a hero, but people need to recognize the value in playing their part.

February 20, 2026: The Pacifier
Editorial cartoons for Friday, Feb. 20

A sketchy look at the news of the day.… Continue reading

30,000 coho salmon await release at the Hatchery and Environmental Education Center at Halls Lake in Lynnwood on April 5, 2019. (Kevin Clark / The Herald)
Editorial: Set deadline for chemical in tires that’s killing coho

A ban set for 2035 allows ample time to find a viable replacement for 6PPD, which kills salmon and trout.

Schwab: Celebrating grift with portraits of dead presidents

Bribery isn’t corruption when its done out in the open for all to admire, emulate and praise.

Letter: Anti-Soros editorial cartoon was antisemitic

I have always supported The Herald’s opinion and cartoon pages, even when… Continue reading

Letter: Sheriff standards a step toward a liberal police state

If it were not for the 75 percent vote in King County,… Continue reading

Support local journalism

If you value local news, make a gift now to support the trusted journalism you get in The Daily Herald. Donations processed in this system are not tax deductible.