re_guderian
SILVER Star
I love your postive outlook on life, and you're not technically "wrong" about any of it. I am old enough, and have seen enough of other people's lives now (I'm mid-50's) to understand that "excuses", "choices", "circumstances", and "abilities" all have a millions shades of gray, and are not simply black and white. Life is nothing, if not messy. I'm glad you've found financial peace. Just understand that there a many, many others - some through their own path, and some through no fault of their own - that are not as fortunate as you or I, especially those who have others that depend on them for life's essentials.Then it means work more hours or take on a second job. I went through all this stuff when training for various positions when I was younger. Unfortunately there is no free lunch. When I was in my 20's I had a dead end job that paid almost 16.00 per hour. I took a 50% pay cut knowing that once my new employer saw what I could bring to the table I would move up quick. In just a few short years and 16+ hour days I made close to 20.00 per hour.
I switched careers once again (now I'm in my 40's) starting at the bottom and working my butt off to climb back up. I stayed with this industry for almost 20 years knowing that it pays really well and is impervious to age discrimination, inflation and recession.
Working hard in a job that you don't like to get ahead sucks. That's why it's called work. The problem is only a few want to sacrifice to get ahead. Recessions and inflation have been going on since the beginning of man kind.
The last 10 years (and some previous ones) of me working were brutal and horrible. The last 5 or so were the worst years of working in my life!! Un-damn-bearable!! Yet I got up every afternoon and worked my night shift never being late, showing up ready to work and did beyond what was required.
Now that I'm retired it's all about budgeting and still enjoying my golden years. The gas prices are going to continue to climb as long as the demand is greater than what is made available.