The Comfortability Factor
An instance happened the other day that I’m unable to shake. I decided to share it with all of you.
Two days ago, the word came for my guy to go back to work. He’s been laid off for several months now – the economy’s really played hell on new construction. Being a mechanic, they have mandatory ‘helpers’ and work together as a team. Needing to start the job immediately, his BA gave him the opportunity to call other laid-off helpers he’s worked with in the past, thereby assuring a good pick for the job. Of all the ones he called – only one was interested in working again. One.
The replies were all along the same line: ‘Uh, I’ll pass on this one, man.’
Are you serious? So you’ve been laid off for HOW long now and a good job comes around and ‘you’ll pass’? Are you really doing that great on unemployment? And is this unemployment check guaranteed to last until the next job opportunity comes beating at your door again?
Sorry… I just don’t get it.
So the next time you see those hefty unemployment numbers on the news, remember this little story. Something tells me the numbers that shift in this particular direction would astound us all.
Life of Bon 
I have often seen and thought about this very subject. Despite the figures, real unemployment is at 20% here in Miami, I think. Most would jump at the chance to do anything. 1 in 5 houses and condos is in foreclosure here, worst in the nation. I don’t know how they survive.
December 7, 2011 at 11:41 am
I think about it often too, Carl – and not a day goes by that I don’t thank God for my own job. So many are suffering, doing without and losing their homes now. I didn’t realize Miami’s stats were that high. Thing is, most if not all of these guys who turned the (did I mention great-paying?) job down have 2 or more underage children. I just don’t get how these people survive, unless they’re working under the table and drawing unemployment. I’ve done the math and I can report that personally, I wouldn’t make ends meet on unemployment.
December 7, 2011 at 11:53 am
Isn’t that incredible ..
December 7, 2011 at 11:51 am
Blows my mind – in addition to pissing me off.
December 7, 2011 at 11:55 am
I also read the news about unemployment rate. In especially Spanish situation is serious.
I hope the world that young people can have a dream.
December 8, 2011 at 8:14 am
The numbers have never been this high here – but it astounded me that someone would actually turn down a good job opportunity because of their unemployment benefits.
December 11, 2011 at 10:32 am