Reinvention? How about REality? REcession? Paying the REnt?
I try to stay positive; I really do. But I grow weary of folks casually tossing out the idea that people over a certain age should just go tra-la-laing into their long-held dream career now that they’ve been tossed out of their jobs, spent all their savings, and have no resources whatsoever.
How easy it is for those with REsources to cheefully suggest ‘reinvention’ to those with almost nothing left.
You can make lemonade out of lemons, sure… but it also takes sugar and water and if you can’t get those things, then pretty much all you’ve got is … lemons.
=Rant over =
I now return you to your regularly scheduled…whatever you were doing. (^_^)
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i use a combo of shea butter and aloe vera moisturizer. Works great. I use shea butter on my lips, around my eyes and nose (dry areas), My father swears by vasoline.
p.s. I dropped your name on Gina's post, Barb. ;)
One statistic here. I return to my work on Sunday, for eight days. I do not possess $3.50 to secure public transportation for one day. I owe my closest sister $100 I borrowed just prior to learning I am waiting on UI. I actually need to rent a car for the eight days. It would be nice to secure money to secure a car to travel to the destinations for work. The places are in extreme wooded and rural locations. There, you have it. This is my lemon. If anyone desires to help me make lemonade from this situation I am more than happy to hear from them. Oh by the way, payroll ends this Saturday for the same job and so far I have secured 4.25 hours for two weeks. UI typically kick-in; however, as I mentioned in some previous post, I am waiting for the UI extension to be decided upon. If it is decided positively, I have one week in the hole and I am to apply for this weekend, for two weeks; because of the 4.25 hours earned in two weeks.
Helen
7-15-10
Hi Five to Nine:
I just want to let you know I read your post. And I so get it. I keep telling myself that things will turn around and this long long no deals in the works will end very soon. Living on commission my whole life has been an up and down and around and around proposition. I know what broke is.
I wish there was something I could do for you guys. Let’s see, what I’m doing after reading yours and Helen’s post is counting my blessings. I would give Helen the $ she needs to get from A-B and I would give you a job you are worthy of. And, I will read your posts and let you rant. I know it doesn’t pay the rent or buy you sugar. What can we do? It’s slow process to change the way things are at govt. level. It certainly has to start somewhere. What kind of support system is in place for you outside of programs? Are there too many people in line? What about exchange programs? Not an immediate answer but maybe you could start one in your area? If I had a free car rental coupon, you could have it Helen. Would you take it? NanaCatherine, my house has been on the market for 65 days and I’m deserting it end of next week. (well, it will be empty of people) This economy sucks. My realtor said last weekend was the first in a very long time where she didn’t have clients to take around. There could be some changes in November. I believe no one is doing anything because they are scared as hell. Big corporations are waiting to see what’s going to happen and yes, they too are seeing the decline. Healthcare just went up for us. Since we’re not making more money, (those lucky to still have their jobs) what part of the budget does it come out of? Food more than likely, so the grocers quit selling as much, furthering layoffs. Gas, well, I refuse to go there. Entertainment? Think of all the things in that category that are affected. Vacations? Places that rely on their tourisst seasons will suffer, furthering the trickle down affect. What can we do?
What can we do? I wish I knew, moon. I am so tired. Really. The original post was borne out of sheer frustration; waiting on the federal government to determine whether or not I can pay the rent is so wearying. In addition, I got another rejection email this morning from a job I barely remember applying for. I apply for so many and I’ve done it for so long, they’re all running together at this point. I guess I should be happy that they responded at all. More often, you never hear from prospective employers at all. And I think you are right — everyone is scared. Scared to buy a house lest they lose their job… banks won’t lend because they’re scared of the same thing… companies won’t hire until they see what is going to happen… and while everyone is waiting, waiting, we’re all sinking further in the hole.
((( Helen )))) ((((NanaCatherine ))) (((Moon)))) – just sending hugs and good vibes out there to you — I know I could use some so I figured you could too.
I really hate chasing $$$$ I’ve chased money my whole life, my life depends on $$$$, The more you have the better you live, better food, clothing, shelter & health care. We can put a man on the moon, make a phone fit into your pocket, but we can’t feed everyone in our community, keep folks safe & off the street. I just don’t understand the priorities of our government. There is enough for everyone to live a decent life, why do only a few control who gets a decent life? Why did they have to send so many jobs over seas, before creating more jobs? Why do companies get to destroy the environment & peoples Lively hoods so freely without consequences? How can all this destruction happen so often with no recourse? Everyone has the right to be fed, healthy, & safe. We can make help available to people, so they can help themselves live a decent life. We have the means, programs can be put into place for these things. Money is spent on so much stupidity, I just don’t understand the reasoning behind the government. There is no compassion, no humanity. Just indifference. What happened to FOR the people BY the people?
To my way of thinking, it is precisely because so many benefits are run by ‘the government’ that we have no compassion, no humanity. ‘Humanity’ comes from ‘humans’. The farther the money control is removed from the individual, the less human connection there is. In it’s attempt to be ‘fair’ in handing out benefits, government creates a cold, sterile bureaucracy. That’s why I’m more in favor of tax incentives to charitable organizations whenever it comes to human needs.
Also, the more we ‘pass on’ our responsibilities to our fellow man to government, the more we are inclined to shy away from others, thinking ‘I pay my taxes so that they can go get help….I don’t need to get personally involved’. In fact, I think that at some level, we prefer gov’t help so that we don’t have to get personally/emotionally involved with those that are needy.
You say there’s enough to go around, and why is it that only a few control things? Well, is it fair that those that worked for what they have should have to give to those that shirk working (I’m talking about the moochers, not the laid off)?
I recently heard a commentator say that we should make illegals citizens because they will do the work that Americans don’t want to do. I was just flabbergasted. So, now certain work is beneath Americans? What is going on?
One last thing. (the following statement is just an observation, not a ‘lecture’). This situation with unemployment benefits is just one more example of why there should be as little gov’t as possible. I mean, the more dependent you are on gov’t to meet your needs, the more you are at their mercy.
Sorry to have rambled, but your questions brought so many thoughts to mind. Thanks for listening.
I don’t disagree that “the more you are dependent on government to meet your needs, the more you are at their mercy”, but I disagree with you on a couple of points: First of all, there are very, very few ‘moochers’ receiving unemployment benefits, and frankly it irks the hell out of me that some people insist on concentrating on the miniscule number of people who may be enjoying their unemployed status.
And just to clarify: unemployment is paid for by companies to those who have WORKED all their lives for it; it’s not welfare, so it’s not coming out of anybody’s tax dollars.
To me, this is like those who choose to believe that the homeless somehow chose to be that way. A miniscule number are out there because of mental illness or drug use, but for the vast number of them, they simply fell through the cracks. Really, who would choose that?
Secondly, the government in the last administration looked the other way and/or made it favorable to companies to send millions of jobs overseas and as a result, the current unemployed are not sitting around eating bonbons and watching Oprah while they’re waiting for their unemployment benefits — they’re hunting under every rock and stone for jobs that no longer exist. To my mind, since the government played a part in creating this situation, it is their responsibility to work to fix it.
The bottom line for me is that it is not really relevant to point fingers as to HOW we got here; the point is, we are here now. This is simple math: According to several authorities, there are roughly 14 million unemployed persons, more or less, but there aren’t 14 million jobs available. What would you have them do? Starve? If these families wind up homeless and living on your street, would you not expect the government to do something about it?
To my mind, it is a government’s obligation to assist those who cannot assist themselves through no fault of their own. If the government is not there for the least of us, then what, pray tell, is their function?
First of all, let me say that my intention in responding to you is not to judge or condem but to engage in a discussion. I am not insensitive to your situation.
True, employers do pay unemployment benefits payments. To me, this is just a different name for a tax on the business. It is still one pocket to another. As with any other ‘insurance’ payment, it is calculated based on risk. And, as the risk increases (the more you pay out), so does the likelihood of the payment increasing. As a result, businesses are hesitant to take risks in order to grow.
You are right that gov’t should help ‘fix it’. However, that is done by creating a climate of confidence both in business and in the consumer. This administration has pushed so many initiatives so fast and provided so few details, that the result has been apprehension on the part of all involved. They can blame greed or the fat cats or whatever, but the fact is that it is all interconnected and they need to admit their role in this situation.
As for your last question, IMHO, the only function of gov’t should be public safety and national defense. As for the human services, I believe our money would be better used if gov’t subsidized/incentivized private charities and non-profits to provide those services rather than create costly bureaucracies to push paper. I think that would really keep the ‘human’ in human services.
I know this discussion doesn’t help you eat or pay rent, but hopefully it serves as an outlet for you. Please rant all you want if it helps
“our money would be better used if government subsidized/incentivized private charities and nonprofits to provide those services rather than create costly bureaucracies….”
So you are saying that the GOVERNMENT should subsidize charities and nonprofits?
We are in fact saying the same thing; our only difference is the vehicle and people who are losing their homes don’t really care one way or the other. Money is money, whether the government subsidizes charities or it comes via extended unemployment benefits, it would be coming from the same entity and it will be spent the same way, thereby going right back into the economy. Unemployment benefits are so minimal, that no one can save any of it; it goes right back into the economy.
As for ranting, it does help a little. What helps more is that it sometimes spurs other people to assist in making change.
I’m sorry, I see from your answer that my fingers were not as fast as my brain. I was talking about the whole system in general.
Perhaps, Olga, if I was situated like you are and You were situated as I am, I wonder if you would sing another tune. In it was the case, that you was in my situation, I may not have commented at all. Possibly, you may not have read the piece that I cannot secure public transportation for one day of work. I cannot help feeling stomped on by you and all the others who consistently overlook the fact that if a better paying job became available I cannot afford to go to work.
I’m sorry you feel stomped on. That was certainly not my intention. And, I have been in your situation before. I come from an immigrant family and know of many immigrants that started from ‘zero’, and I mean ‘zero’ — no benefits of any type, not knowing the language, and only having family, friends and churches to help.
I purposely kept my discussion to general macro systems issues rather than individual situations. One is because I was hoping by having that discussion, as 5to9 said, we would be ‘spurred to assist in making change’ and two, because I feel it would be presumptuous of me to give you any type of advice on your particular situation.
Oh, Five, I know you try to stay positive, I read it in your posts. But we all need to rant sometimes and you certainly have a very good reason. Reinventing is so far out of the realm when you need immediate relief. I’m still hoping for the UI extension to become law and that the payments will be retroactive. I saw a glimmer of good news on TV. David Gergen who is co-director of the Center for Public Leadership at Harvard ‘s Kennedy School and a senior political analyst, a self-described deficit hawk, said “extending the UI benefits it the RIGHT think to do. Why do we feel that making the people in the gulf whole is correct, but not the millions who are unemployed.” I’m sure you’ve heard it all before-but it’s this kind of rational thinking that we need-this situation is a disaster also. Sending hugs your way-you’re in my thoughts and prayers.
It stuns me, winelover. Everyone knows it’s the right thing to do… and yet the Senate is allowed to fiddle while America burns…. and I wonder what has happened to this country, as Wisernow said above.
I do try to stay positive but I am in a funk this week and I can’t seem to shake it.
I actually think that MANY people DON’T think it’s the right thing to do. That’s the most frustrating to me-and these same people are writing their representatives just like we are.
Perhaps you are right, but I hope not. If so, we just have to be the louder voice, winelover.
I hope those who adamantly oppose it are prepared for the chaos that will ensue when the middle class who are now the poor come knocking on their doors, sleeping on their streets, and spilling out of nearby shelters. Why is it so hard for people to understand that the unemployed want to find jobs but the jobs are not there? What is so difficult to comprehend about the fact that the long term unemployed spend every dollar they get thereby actually helping the economy? They’re certainly not saving it because there is nothing to save. They’re certainly not using any savings they might have for reinvention in a new business because they need every nickel to pay the rent.
What is with this head-in-the-sand attitude that is going on?
It is a puzzlement.
Talk about the “perfect stimulus program”! All this money will be spent, sparking a little life into a lackluster economy. Keep the $ out of the economy and things get worse!
The point is that unemployment benefits put ‘back’ into the economy is just taking money out of one pocket to put in the other. There is no growth or stimulus.
The problem with Kensyan economics (gov’t stimulating the economy through increasing the money supply) is that eventually it leads to inflation, which means more taxes, which means you take money back out of the economy. So, you’re back to the two pocket thing. It then becomes more expensive for businesses to do business and they start laying people off again.
My understanding is that the main opposition to extending benefits is that the proponents aren’t coming up with a way to pay for it. The rule was just passed this year that no new expenditures would go forth unless there was a way put forth to pay for them–and now they break their own rules.
I think the question we should ask is, why can’t the proponents come up with a way to cut something else and pay for these benefits? They’re always talking about gov’t waste on both sides of the aisle, so why not grow a pair and take some of the ‘waste’ out to pay for the benefits. Just saying……………..
And I’m saying, that while they debate, people go hungry and lose their homes. These are flesh and blood human beings just like you, Olga, who have the right to a decent life because they have paid their taxes and worked all their lives to contribute to this country, that is now failing them miserably. If there are no jobs available, what would you have them do? Are you willing to take them into your home while the Senate debates their fate?
If you are a parent looking at a hungry child or trying to figure out how to keep a roof over that child’s head, I seriously doubt that you are thinking of conducting a political argument about where the money comes from or “Kensyan economics” — you are thinking about how to stay alive and maintain at least some dignity in the process.
“The problem with Kensyan economics (gov’t stimulating the economy through increasing the money supply) is that eventually it leads to inflation, which means more taxes, which means you take money back out of the economy.”
Olga, deflation is a bigger concern. And what is going on right now is not “Kensyan economics”. Lots of big things going on but not that, I completely disagree with that statement.
By Kensyan economics, I meant the idea that government using monetary policy to stimulate the economy. But my point was not to debate economic theories, but just to express my opinion that government spending (especially the way it is being done now) does not create jobs, nor does it stimulate an economy.
For discussions sake…….what do you think is going on (i.e. what big things)?
Hi Olga,
There may not be “growth” in extending the UI benefits but I don’t understand how giving people the opportunity to buy groceries, pay rent and utility bills doesn’t help the economy. It’s consumer spending-how is this any different than giving the wealthy tax cuts so they have more money in their pockets and keep the economy moving along. I’ve heard this argument for tax cuts many times. Why isn’t this taking money from one pocket and putting it in the other?
Why don’t we have to cut spending somewhere else in the budget to bring help to the gulf? I don’t remember hearing any outrage over this-isn’t one of the purposes to keep the shrimpers and fishermen employed so they can pay their bills and support their families? What’s the difference?
I would also like to see other programs cut, especially the waste and don’t understand why we can’t do this. But I see this situation as an emergency, something that can’t wait. There’s lots of discussion recently regarding the “death tax”. One Senator went so far as saying that George Steinbrenner died in the right year, since the exemption may expire at the end of this year. I think Steinbrenner’s estate is about one billion-who cares about his exemption? I bet his family doesn’t even care-what’s a couple of million here or there?. What bothers me is the FOCUS-lets deal with the immediate needs of the American people and then we can debate other situations.
While I’m up on my soap box-haha-how can some people complain about the increasing deficit and also-the same people-be the biggest proponents of HUGE tax breaks for the wealthiest? When we give tax breaks, we get Less Money to put toward the deficit. The deficit is a result of spending AND income-income derived from taxes. Isn’t this inconsistent thinking?
OK, off the box, but we need to extend the benefits NOW and this should be our first priority.
As a friend of mine says, Be Happy.
Hey Olga,
I didn’t mean to take all my frustration out on you. Sorry it sounds like that-I was venting at the situation. Sorry.
No problem WL, I enjoy a good discussion, and you bring up good questions. I’ve wanted to get back with you, just haven’t had the time in the last few days. Hubby and I celebrated our 4th anniversary! Maybe I’ll get time tomorrow.
5-9, just want to chime in and also add my support, to you and all others un or under-employed! This was covered on Rachel Maddow last night, interesting segment about it and some proposals by the Repubs to add to the deficit and comments about how it will impact job growth. The government can certainly help by creating the right climate, but a lot more is the private sector doing the right thing. Besides there being few positions, those that are available are paying ridiculous salaries. I know I am preaching to the choir here but just had to say it!
I wish I could help more than just support and also reading your vents. Vent on!!
I hear ya, JEM. I’ve seen postings for executive assistants where they wanted you to do everything but sweep the floor and then, at the very bottom of the post, it will show the salary as $10 per hour. That’s a child’s salary. I want to thrash people who say, “just take any job” because they obviously don’t do the math. If you live alone and you get a job paying $10 per hour, chances are you won’t get paid for your lunch hour, so that’s $350 a week. Subtract health insurance and taxes and you might bring home $275. Subtract public transportation (in my case) or gas for those who drive. Even if you eat breakfast and dinner at home and brown-bag it for lunch, there is no way to pay the rent, utilities, commuting costs, and buy food on $1000 per month. Never gonna happen.
… and that’s assuming you even GET the job considering most open positions receive hundreds of resumes.
5-9, first I want to say that I hope nothing I say discourages you further, I would never want to do that, it is said more just for discussion.
I have seen those postings too. And for a person living in NYC or the area, as well as many other metropolitan areas, it is a joke. But you brought up a couple of points. First, I know many unemployed and I give some job searching advice on other sites. None of them are turning down jobs. This “just take any job” is about as clueless as a statement can be. Just another reason to not discuss the issue I guess. And your breakdown for a 10.00 a hour job is right on. Might work for someone living with parents, huh?
What I fear most is this. I am in the non profit sector but work with groups/clients who are in the corporate sector, and I see this in both industries. And that is the downsizing, putting 2-3 employee’s workload onto 1 and calling it done. This 1 person is overwhelmed, stressed beyond belief and would leave in a minute if he/she could find something else. My husband works for a large national transportation company and profits are up, according to the upper management. He told me last night of a large multi-million dollar project that he is managing and should have 20 guys working it and he has 10. Same with other departments. Doing more with less. But there are the profits upper management is so happy about. I won’t even get into the issue my husband has daily with making damned sure that the parts and materials used are top quality and not skimming there.
I left a position in January after downsizing my department from 4 to me. Not the only reason that I left, but is one. I worked for a state chapter of a very large national non profit. And I was a director and so was not allowed to actually handle the checks, money, etc as I reconciled the GL, bank recs, prepared the financial reports, etc. This was per policy as in internal controls. So, I was left to an 80 year old volunteer to enter the money and checks into a spreadsheet. She got so flustered, I am not sure she had any contact with a computer before, that I spent much of my day holding her hand and calming her down and then working to 9 pm to get my job done.
My point is whether these jobs will ever come back. Sure everyone would like to say they will, after all turnover is costly for any employer, but I am not so sure. I think that greed and seeing those salary/benefit line items lessened on the profit and loss statement will or could become the way it is. Helps profits and to balance a budget.
I hope I am wrong, but my experience over my career makes me pause and wonder. I have seen big-time embezzlement, mis-management, lousy management and just staggering greed to think it is or will be different now. What are your thoughts?
See the message below….
I hope this doesn’t post twice — VN is acting kind of hinky today so I’m trying again…
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I agree completely, Jem. I truly fear that many of these jobs will never come back and then what is to become of the MILLIONS of people currently unemployed? I wish someone would give me a reasonable solution as to what these people are supposed to do. Disappear?
My sister who works in the financial sector and makes a pretty good salary recently relocated to CA for a couple of years, and I suspect it’s because she had no choice — take the relocation or lose the job. Just before she left, I gave her and my brother in law a small family bon voyage party. She told me that over the past couple of years, the management of this financial corporation has systematically downsized most of the admins out of their jobs and told the analysts that they should do more….. so, someone who is getting paid six figures is expected to do their own faxing, filing, printing, coordinating, looking for supplies, etc, etc. My siblings and I were raised to believe that no honest work is beneath us, but really, is this the best use of a financial analyst’s time? Instead of dealing with a million dollar client’s issues, they should be hunting for toner for the printer?
On a personal note — I have worked in corporate for most of my life but most recently, I held jobs in the nonprofit sector and frankly, I prefer it, even though the pay is much less. I enjoyed the more collaborative nature and goals that centered more around the mission than greed and profits. But as you stated, the economy hits hard there as well. My last full time job was for a nonprofit as an exec assistant and I was downsized because the private sector reduced their funding drastically and there was no more money for my salary. That left one assistant to handle the needs of an exec director, the board of directors, five staff directors, and 15 or so other staff members. How much sense does that make?
Re: your sister’s and other’s plight, I hear you! It is not a good use of their time but what happens, in my situation that is, I worked 70 hour weeks to get it all done. Went 4, almost 5 years with no time off except for my mother’s and father’s funeral, 2 years apart. At that 6 figure salary(although I was close, I never made that mark) salary, the person is exempt. Also often has a company laptop, cell, etc and is expected to be 24/7. Doesn’t matter whether we do surgeries or deal with clients, it is expected anymore. My 70 hour weeks included weekends, 3 weeks of every month on Saturday, I had a 4-6 hour board meeting and with different clients (all non profits) so different materials, reports, mindset, all of that was needed, I was switching gears constantly.
In my situation, I have taught administrative functions from IT, financial to HR and a lot in between, so I know how to do things and efficiently. But it has been rather funny over the years to have to hold the hands of other management staff who don’t even know how to copy and paste. The company does not give a hoot, as long as the job gets done and a true professional will see that it does.
At my last position, our assistant who was taking care of about what you described was making 11.00 an hour. I lobbied and got her 15.00 but it was a battle from the get-go. And still not enough time for her to do the job no matter how much she was paid. She got a job at another non profit making the same amount but with a more specific job description, not just whatever!
So many people are in the same boat Five….I hear you loud and clear…..I am not too far away from where you are also……to say it is frustrating as hell is the understatement of the year…..rant whenever you want..
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lnNK4Alwbsw
My heart and thoughts be with you… the only thing I can offer…although when these attack of frustration hit you ( I can understand your situation , it has to be very hard)
Love Peace Health And Wealth to you with love………
Thank you, fayetteSIPP, and please know that I am wishing you the very same!
I am endeavoring not to come off as ‘shrill’, but as my frustration level grows, it’s possible that I am losing that battle! (^_^)
I just have no patience for people who may not realize that they are kicking others when they are down when they talk about ‘using this time as an ‘opportunity to follow your dream’, or those who want to have philosophical, economic, or political arguments while human beings are losing the roof over their heads and don’t have the money to buy FOOD.
TODAY.
In AMERICA.
If they are sharing their salary with one of these people or families, or allowing them to move into their home until they get on their feet, great. If not, I don’t have the energy to deal with it.
I understand I really do..it is not eay and you are right about the advice…but what i offer is just try to pick yourself up by being grateful of the abilities you hae something as simple as sight , we complain about wrinkles and I saw a young woman on TV who got shot in the face lost her sight and half her face….I believe the stimulius package should have been for making jobs and giving low interest loans to help people start over…Do me a favor and try harder not to let yourself lose this “battle” usually that is when it is nearly won….I believe you will find a job or better yet make a job and maybe change that name from Nine to Five
to Any Time I Please ( SMILE ) I really will have you in my prayers for as you hurt we hurt whether we know it or not we are connected.
Remember girl,what you want to come think on it and know this too shall pass.
Right Five, I am so with you….I will probably catch hell for saying this, but for some reason that horse post just irritated me….such a frivolous spending of money, not that I have not done some of that in the past, but I am much more mindful today….I love dogs, but I don’t have one because they are an expense and a luxury….I know ya know.
Sunblossom — What “horse post”?
Something like “Why I ride horses at age 60″ a few days ago….just irritated….when I’m feeling I should post one that says “Why I like to make ends meet at age 60″…..oh well to each his own….it’s just hard to hear someone does not have money to get to work and others have horsey money to do something that costs a lot for a personal pleasure….a personal choice for sure, but it just does not sit well with me….some folks have lots of money and are free to spend how they will…it just does not seem fair.
((((((((( Sunblossom ))))))) – Sigh. I know exactly how you feel. Kinda how I felt when I read about Vibrant Nation’s upcoming spa retreat that ONLY costs $1500.
No one I know has an “extra” $1500 to spend on anything, let alone a 4-day getaway. Oh well. Maybe some day, huh?
Wow so if I am understanding you correctly. All of us who have worked hard everyday of our lives, saved, sacrificed and somehow made it through are supposed to feel guilty because we can afford luxuries in our lives? Not trying to minimulize your situation, but everyones finances are different, to resent those who have money because you have financial problems doesn’t seem fair to me. Looking at what others have, and assuming they haven’t a hard life because they have money isn’t fair. Assuming because they have money they don’t help their fellow man because they have time to ride horses or attend retreats is judemental, as assuming everyone who is homeless, wants to be there. I think it’s wrong to hold it against someone just because they can enjoy some luxury after working for it all their lives. This isn’t to imply you didn’t work for it but each life is different, and takes different paths. It makes and us verses them mentality.
I did not say you should feel guilty, I said you were free to spend it however you want…does not mean I have to agree..I did not say or assume anyone wasn’t helping their fellow man…you put many words here not in my post….you can work hard. save and spend as you want…I said was it does not seem fair …just my opinion…you assumed the judgment.
These comments are all great. The only reason I have time to read them is (you guessed it) I’ve been out of work for over a year. House payment due yesterday, still waiting to hear about loan modification, but it may come too late. Yikes! I am on the job boards daily, revising and sending cover letters and resumes to all jobs I’m qualified for and many that I am not. It is all so anonymous, employers don’t post the name of the company, you don’t know who you are replying to, and then you never get any type of response or feedback. I do try to stay positive and have not given up hope. I was self-employed for a long time, but that is really no different than looking for work all of the time. I feel I would be a reliable, mature, creative and competent employee, but that is very hard to get that across to a real person when they may never see your a computer-screened resume.
In light of all of this, I do try to stay positive – constantly talking myself out of bad moods,the blame game, and trying to focus on the present moment. I feel that I’m doing all I can, yet I know there is more I must and should do.
I wish there was a way to harness our collective, positive, energy so we could spread it around for all to benefit from. We share so much here, let us share good vibes, hugs and prayers that we all make it through and find our joy.
Love your last suggestion I fee; what you are talking about….I often wondered about people who could live in 10,000 or more sq, ft houses when many have not Even a room to live in, I can hardly wait to be that rich I do what I can with what little I have but I Will one day do so much more, lets work on those vibes..
Nadieo – I SO agree with you; wouldn’t it be terrific if we could harness all this?
I am upbeat most of the time, but some days I feel as if I have misplaced my joy and wonder if I will ever find it again. But I must say I do find some solace by being able to interact with so many great people here and on other online forums.
Had to smile a little regarding not getting responses from employers. I hadn’t gotten any responses in MONTHS and lo and behold, I just got an email rejection letter yesterday. I’m not sure which is worse: sending your app and never hearing from them or being told you were thisclose but so sad, too bad, we found someone just a little better than you.
(^_^)
Five to Nine: “Misplaced my joy” Yes! That is how I often feel – as if somehow I shouldn’t have joy because of this financial heaviness that I feel. It is a constant battle to stay positive. I’m so pleased to have found VN, to be able to express my thoughts with all of you amazing women. It is easy to believe that I am the only one experiencing these things, but then I check in with VN and know that I am not alone. I know that when one of us finds some joy, we will share so we can all have a little piece of that.
She shoots, she scores: wouldn’t it be lovely if intead of sharing our horror stories, one by one, we could come back in here and say, “Hey, I got a great new job!” or “Hey, I just won the lottery!” (^_^)
You are so right about just being able to share. Part of the hell of long term unemployment is not only the constant, oppressive worry and fear about not having enough money to live, but also the isolation, boredom and loneliness you feel when you don’t have anywhere to go each day, especially if you live alone. Some days I actually jump when the phone rings. (^_^) Thank heaven for cyberspace! (^_^)
Yes to all of the above. Though married, I am living alone most of the time while my husband is in another state trying to get a business going there (he closed his business of 20 years and is now trying to start anew). I still set my alarm in the morning so I can wake with a sense of purpose, though some days I’m not sure what I have filled my time with. I’m an artistic person, but have not felt joy enough to paint and create – I’m certainly not one of those who finds artistic inspiration in my pain :0). And you know what, I’m really getting tired of reading my own resume and re-writing it constantly. I don’t think I can say anything new about myself and I’m getting a little bored. Maybe a new identity and work history would help – at least make it entertaining. Just kidding – I shall power through and so shall you – hugs. (And, yes, I was just thinking of buying a lottery ticket, hmmmm. . . )
Wow, once again I can relate! I’m a jewelry artisan. I used to make and sell jewelry at large craft shows in southern NJ but since I moved back to the NYC area more than six months ago, I’ve barely picked up my tools. Try as I might, I can’t create when I’m stressed. I have two online shops and I really need to make some new stuff and photograph and upload other things I have in my workroom, but I just can’t seem to find the motivation.
five to nine, i love reading your posts because i believe you always hit the nail on the head. i don’t understand how the govt sits idly by deciding whether or not to extend benefits to the unemployed when there are no jobs out there to be had due to the twomost important factors in this country….we manufacture nothing and ship jobs overseas….doh….and why is this??????GREED, PURE AND SIMPLE. I would say the unemployed need to rally and march on Washington but no one can afford transportation! Personally i would like to see the unemployed show up at their senators or congressman/woman home en mass and ask if maybe they could take them in while they are trying to decide!! Cuz you know if it was one of them or their family, things would be a lot different. I too was one of the unemployed but was truly lucky to find a job…and i mean lucky… My job was outsourced to a software program..i did medical transcription and voice recognition is now putting all of us out of a job that will never be replaced. That will be the next dilemma, robotic assistants in the office….don’t scoff……it’s not far off…. when you call a business number, how many live people do you get to talk to?, very few. This country is all about the bottom line….whatever the cost to the people.
One of my concerns sadie is that technology, although, it has done a lot to help us is contributing to a bigger, wider divide between the “haves and have nots” in this country. It feels like the middle class is being squeezed out. If we talk about this or suggest programs to help-we’re called socialists.
Ain’t it the truth? When did “socialist” become such a dirty word? Seems like rampant capitalism is what has gotten us into this horrible mess. I’d say we could use a little of BOTH.
So true, just look at history and what has happened when the “rich get richer and the poor get poorer”. It can lead to chaos. We need some balance and capitalism did go rampant, nobody was watching.
Today’s the vote!!! Sending good vibes.
Hi WL, I know that you know my history of having lived under socialism/communism. And yes, theoretically socialism is a step toward communism.
I don’t want to hijack this thread, but I will say that you have no idea how much the statements you two ladies have made about ‘what’s so wrong with socialism’ scare me. The following suggestion is made with all due respect. Please read about real life under real socialism and subsequent communism and the resulting oppresion of rights and freedoms. My suggestion would be to go to sources written by real live people that have lived it–not by academics who believe in utopias.
First let me say that I should have put the term socialism in quotes in my post. I’m not talking about the real socialism and subsequent communism that I think you are citing.
I am aware of your background Olga and I would hope that with your intelligence and experience you can see the difference between an actual Socialist/Communist society and the imaginary “Socialist” boogeyman who’s hiding in the Whitehouse, waiting in the wings to gobble us all up.
I’m talking about fear mongering and labeling programs or ideas that focus on helping the least amongst us as “socialism”. I don’t advocate overthrowing our capitalistic system, but my eyes are wide open to the problems that can arise when more and more people at the lower rungs are allowed to fall into poverty. That’s what scares me.
My Dad’s youngest brother married a woman from Norway years ago. She’s in her 70′s now and refers to Norway, Denmark and Sweden as socialist countries-probably not technically correct-but IMHO many of their policies would be labeled socialist. She was very excited when Oprah went to one of these countries, I can’t recall which one, I think it was Denmark, on her show about the happiest people in the world. I saw the show and the real live people portrayed themselves as content and didn’t mention a possibility of communism becoming a reality in the future.
Hi WL, here’s just an FYI (don’t want to hijack the thread) on happiness in Denmark:
http://women.timesonline.co.uk/tol/life_and_style/women/the_way_we_live/article2167749.ece (about halfway down the story it speaks of how ‘exclusive’ a society the Danes are.)
http://www.cato-at-liberty.org/2009/10/09/are-living-standards-higher-in-denmark-or-the-united-states/ (you can search the site further for more articles on Denmark)
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/08/world/europe/08iht-danes.4140472.html
I have to go away for a few days. Maybe when I come back we could further this discussion (re socialist programs) on another thread.
For reference, I tried to search the thread VN had a few months back on progressivism and socialism (re Obama), but could not find it anywhere. Maybe the moderator could help us out.
Olga, I’m sorry the search function didn’t work in this case – we’ll look into it. But I think this is the thread you were looking for: Is President Obama a Progressive or a Socialist?
Thanks Cara, I wanted to refer to it for some definitions we discussed.
Please see my response to Winelover below.
Please note that I’m the one who clicked on the heart that indicates “1 member loves this” under Winelover’s post. Her feelings mirror mine.
Thanks for the click Five to Nine. After the President signs the bill will the benefits be retroactive? I’m pretty sure they are, but haven’t seen it in writing. Thanks.
I hope voters remember this HUGE delay to help hard working Americans come election time.
Yes, I was watching CSPAN today while they debated and voted. As I understand it, restored benefits will be retroactive from the beginning of June. HUGE relief… but I’m still pissed – LOL!
I hope Americans remember in November!
Yeah…..sometimes it’s good to be pissed, it keeps the fire in the belly (And we WON”T FORGET)! I’m happy for you. I also design jewelry and I hope you can get the motivation back!! You go girl.
(((Five to Nine))) Big Hugs!
Big hugs backatcha, (((Winelover)))!
I thought about you today most especially when I heard on the news that they were going to extend the unemployment benefits. Best wishes to you.
Thanks, Alma! Best to you as well!
Congrats on getting a job! Those are indeed very hard to come by these days.
The Senate will vote today and the bill is expected to pass… and if it doesn’t, I suspect your prediction will come true. Perhaps marching on Washington the way we used to in the 60s and 70s is what’s needed now.
Addressing the isoation and boredom issue stated earlier, there are plenty of people that need help, to volunteer for. I have seen volunteers turn into positions. Schools, nursing homes, hospice, churches, habitat for humanity the list goes on and on, if you have a lot of time on your hands, feel isolated, bored, perhaps this is a consideration. Feeling this way often dissappears when you volunteer to help others. Just a thought.
You are right. I have been considering that, and I do volunteer with group of women in my area on a small project, but I need to branch out. Thanks.
Sometimes volunteer positions can lead to contacts and to a job.