DEAR ABBY: This is for the woman who says she despises bumming rides: Did it ever occur to her to put a couple of dollars in an envelope and give it to the driver?
I drive, and I never refuse a ride to anyone from our church who asks, but the cold hard facts are it costs me money to drive my car. My insurance is $900 a year. Last year I spent about $800 on repairs, plus gas, oil and parking. There are a few folks (very few) who will slip a couple of dollars into my purse. These people are picked up at their door, rain or shine, and returned there.
For years, my mother lived in Florida. She didn't drive, but she always gave the driver $2 for gas.
Abby, please tell these people to "wake up" -- I am living on a limited income.
No name, please. Sign me ... CHICAGO
DEAR CHICAGO: I'm printing your letter with the hope that those people who are given chauffeur service routinely will see themselves, and reward the driver appropriately.