You can't charge more for flowers when the guy across the street isn't raising his prices over the extra cost [of gas]. Sometimes, you wind up having to eat that cost.

The trucking companies are also tacking on extra charges to us for their increased gas expenses. So, there is going to wind up being some pass-through to consumers — unless [gas] prices go back down. But that doesn't seem likely.

Today, we estimate that the true cost of those deliveries is now at least $10 to $11. I sent out a notice today to our 300 members, noting that the profitability in this climate doesn't even begin unless they charge that amount for delivery.

All businesses and jobs depend on a vast number of people, often unnoticed and unthanked, without which nothing really gets done. They are all human and deserve respect and gratitude.

Those in powerless positions aren't about to complain about bullying bosses, abusive supervisors or corrupt co-workers. There is no safe way to do so and no process that promises redress.

The truth won't set us free - until we develop the skills and the habit and the talent and the moral courage to use it.