I can’t help feeling empathy after listening to some the voices of despair, frustration, and uncertainty over members unjustly losing their jobs or inability to find work. It’s easy to rush to judgement and assume these members can’t find jobs simply because they’re not trying hard enough but for someone who’s successfully surfed in and out of many jobs and careers and raised up to learn how to lift myself up by my own bootstraps and never ask for help in the past I can honestly say that things aren’t as clear and simple as they were in the past. Dying industries, rapidly evolving need for technical skills, and ageism discrimination are realities affecting the current workplace that many of us find increasingly difficult to maneuver through. Finding a job is impersonal and maintaining a job is fierce. I like to think I’m one of many other members on this site who don’t regard your message of pain and frustration as a sign of weakness, negativity, or complaint. I also know what it’s like to suddenly lose your income and have your whole life turned upside down. It’s a scary and lonely place to be. I encourage those in need to continue asking for help and inspire help from others who can offer it. People helping people is what it’s all about. Happy Holidays!