All these employers say they need people with a certain skill level, which a lot of people have, and the companies simply will not pay employees with said skills. Lack of respect. They feel that an individual should be greatful to simply have a job.

the day before our agency's Christmas break. I am 57, and have been applying for everything I can think of. I have little hope. I've been un- or under-employed for the past five years, and have had to cash out my retirement accounts to get by.

The mendacious POS who fired me clearly enjoyed himself, and the "higher ups" will not address his actions--save putting my factual rebuttal in my permanent employee file. I am writing a blog about this, primarily to debrief and let go.

I have some resources and am planning to return to school. If I am unable to return to teaching, there's always a Kevorkian solution ...

I had those feelings this week but now I'm just mad. The Kervorkian solution just let's the bastards win. Don't let them steal the Social Security money coming to you.

"We must all hang together, or surely, we will all hang separately!"

addresses the fact that thousands of us are out of work (since 2007, there's been a 330% increase in unemployment among women 55-60 years old).

I don't cite my Kevorkian solution to elicit any kind of concern; it's simply one possible (and viable) resolution if things continue along this particular path.

That being said, I much appreciate your kind words and sage observations.

(Note that some DUers have given me hearts, which reminds me that others find me worth a read... for which I'm most thankful! )