Do you have test pipes in the car? You should not be driving unless you understand WHY the check engine light is one.
Most newer cars will throw the light on to tell you there is an issue that is most of the the time minor but you driving across country need to know if its a small thing or big thing. The car can't talk, it can only signal what its programmed for.
If it makes you feel any better, if you start to see the check engine light FLASH, then you need to stop immediately. Most newer OBD cars are setup to have different levels of check engine lights with the flashing being the most extreme.
If your with the guy with who Carlos is with right now, (which I would bet you) then I can take a look at your car when you get back in town. PMing you now to keep it off the boards.