Photo: The Economist  First, this petrol shortage is yet another reason I’m relieved I don’t drive (nor need to) in France. Aside from the fact that it costs a fortune to pass the French driving exam and that I can’t drive a stick shift, I’d be spending hours of my day waiting for an open gas pump in a stream of other vehicles. The petrol shortage, caused by the participation of all 12 of France’s refineries in the strike, has anyone dependent on their vehicles up in arms and rightfully so. The gas stations that haven’t closed due to an entire wipe-out are capping the fills at 30€. After selling more petrol in one day than in a normal week, you can imagine how quickly the resources become barren.

As a general rule, I am pleased to see that French political activism and engagement is still as strong as ever. They believe in something, regardless of its validity, and fight for it. I respect that. Can you imagine what it would take to get Americans to unite and take to the streets for over 8 consecutive days without fear of it costing them their jobs? So while the mention of an upcoming…

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