economics

I live in the epicenter of the economic crisis- ....Michigan..... Though born and raised around those who toiled in factories for wages earned by the blood and sweat and struggles of their forefathers and mothers, who by founding the UAW made it possible for a strong middle class and vibrant economy for nearly three generations, I chose a different route. .. ..The factory floor was not for me- but it was those who worked tirelessly for the Big Three that made my vocation and lifestyle possible. Upon graduation from High School 35 years ago I entered into a career path which included Retail and outside sales. My prosperity was contingent upon middle class wage earners who purchased the products and services necessary to keep Michigans economic muscle possible. During my working years I valued continuing education, earning my BA and MA in Business, furthering my expertise and contributions to both my community and workplace. .. ..I purchased two homes, saved for my three children so they could attend college. One has already attained their degree, another is close, but I fear there could be a shortfall for the third as the unthinkable happened to me- in November, at the age of 52 years, just three weeks after the most historic election in our lifetime, I lost my job of eleven years as a salesperson for a newspaper, forced out by a struggling industry... ..Like many, I was on the wrong side of the ledger my vacated position would save my company money. Though I was a top sales achiever, procuring plus business even in this challenging economy, I was a disposable commodity. So three days before Thanksgiving I joined the swelled ranks of the unemployed. Educated, experienced, ambitious and out of work. .. ..I saw the hardships my neighbors had endured over the years in this Great state as layoffs and plant closures littered the landscape, crushing dreams and hopes of a stable retirement. Many of those thrown out of work were victims of dubious decisions and products from the domestic auto industry. Many from rising health care costs others simply were like me, on the wrong side of the equation. .. ..Since my untimely termination, I have searched for work at little or no avail. My unemployment insurance benefits took nearly seven weeks to kick in. Phone lines and internet sites to the State’s unemployment office were more jammed than rush hour in ....Los Angeles..... My present plight, one that I never thought could happen to me, often gets discouraging, but there is hope. As roads turn to dust, bridges buckle and schools crumble, I am confident congress and the President will pass a stimulus package that will get people back to work .. ......Michigan’s destitution is nothing new, but those who endure want to work. To innovate, to build, repair and pave the future so the next generation can enjoy the prosperity which has passed us by. I too continue- to search, submit resumes, apply for work and attend interviews. If we act now, our greatest days are ahead of us- if not, we’ll continue to see more misery and poverty, ultimately dismantling the struggles of those who fought so hard to build and maintain a middle class and their benefactors- people like me.