I drive. I always do. Should my frequent passengers kick in a little something?

A. L. Katz  |  03:13 PM, Tuesday, August 3, 2010

I was totally this guy-when I was fifteen. My older friends were kind enough to haul me around town until I got my license and could return the favor (thanks, guys). But I had a good reason for not driving: it was illegal. I'm guessing your friend is too old to hide behind that excuse.

Still, what's he doing that's so wrong? Maybe deep down he knows he's freeloading a little, but he might just be oblivious to the fact that you'd rather not drive all the time and are shelling out a few extra bucks on his behalf. I agree that there's no point in nitpicking over trips around town, but it's perfectly reasonable to ask him to a) drive sometimes and b) split the gas with you if you're going on a road trip.

Next time it comes up, ask away. And if he counters by asking why he always supplies the refreshments when you come over, is it so bad to get this out in the open? Maybe you can just agree to treat each other. Either way, you're better off bringing it up than silently burning with resentment every time you fill the tank.