What I didn't say...

So I was at a friend/family gathering some weeks ago. I got into a friendly debate about SUV's. You see, I am of the opinion that these are part of the problem. I am not vocal in my derision but I feel strongly about it. I am upset that I did not pose a counter argument to the final point posed by the other side: It was said that if a person is willing to pay the extra money to drive an SUV it was that person's decision and prerogative. I remained silent as if that was the end word on that. But I now realize that I did have an answer to that comment. If you know me you know that I am not an antagonistic person. I will avoid hurting someone's feelings at all expense even if it just means avoiding a disagreement with them. But I do have a point: My point presents itself as an analogy. We were at a barbeque so the comparison was valid. You approach the table were the food was set and you put on your plate more than you need to eat, more than you will eat. Is it not true then that your faux pas did not just affect you? That food is no longer available to the other party goers. If you drive an SUV and you can afford to pay the tax for the luxury vehicle. And, you can afford the extra money you will spend to keep it fueled. Does that justify making resources scarce for everybody else? I don't think so. No other animal benifits more from interdependence than the Human one. Seeking a comfort level exponentially above the one you need or proclaiming a social status through waste are two reasons our way of life is being questioned and consequently threatened.