Another deeply moving article on the inherent struggles so many face. Perhaps the silver lining in these excruciating times is that it is unveiling what has been there all along. The dignity, the persistence, the hope and faith and sheer grit of the many who have lived their lives quietly but determinedly amidst struggle and lack. That they've survived despite the odds. The struggle and lack are affecting many that perhaps haven't experienced it before. Perhaps these times will illuminate (en masse) the need for change, for a system that lifts everyone, that is inherently fair and just, and sustainable. I hope, too, that it encourages a profound respect for those that have been living this struggle all along. Thank you, Tom, for always shedding light where it's most needed. It's the foundation for hope, and hopefully, for change.
This is every day for so many people. This is a reality that politicians, CEO’s, the Peter Thiels and Elon Musks of the world are dissociated from.
The oft quoted Trickle down economics comes to mind, except what trickles down and makes a pile sure isn’t money.
In the world to come, May there be a requirement that all lawmakers at the state, federal and local levels are mandated to attend an “Unintended Consequences” seminar with the required “Making Policy that improves lives” training.
And, training on putting constituents first, as well as on the Social Contract.
At the federal level, laws are written to eliminate Citizens United, Presidential Immunity, Chevron, etc.
That would be a start, which would be felt at the kitchen table.
The cynic in me says that those individuals are not so much disassociated from this reality, but actively engineering it. Not so much ‘unintended consequences’ but very much ‘intended’. A friend was at college with PT when even then he argued that slavery was a good thing. These are their core beliefs. Desperation is part of the design.
With federal workers being furloughed, fired, and/or expected to work for no pay, week after week, many more will be making these types of choices while the Commander-in-Chief and his minions pontificate about MAGA nonsense.
After your story though I no longer feel guilty about it or ashamed.
I could write it with my numbers plugged in. That is not necessary anymore.
I have been at this now for 69 years. I think my track record is quite good. Here I am and now with eyes forward , back straight, and my exploded heart.
Thank you for this. I’m deeply moved that the story spoke to you in such a direct way. To carry this life for 69 years and still stand with strength and clarity is no small thing,it’s an achievement. Your words remind me why I write.
This one should be required reading before anyone gets appointed to an admin or management position. The unsparing clarity your prose brings to the reality of survival in 2025 inspires and encourages many of us to dig down deep and find the strength to persist. Thank you and please keep writing.
A beautiful piece of writing. Thank you.
I hope everyone reads it.
"Disturb the comfortable and comfort the disturbed."
Thank you.
Thank you Margaret!!
This is America now…
It’s what we’ve become because we lost our way…
I’m not sure we will ever find our way back…
But I have hope…
For I know there is goodness in most people…
And we need kindness to win…
We all have hope. That’s why we get up and do it again every day.
Another deeply moving article on the inherent struggles so many face. Perhaps the silver lining in these excruciating times is that it is unveiling what has been there all along. The dignity, the persistence, the hope and faith and sheer grit of the many who have lived their lives quietly but determinedly amidst struggle and lack. That they've survived despite the odds. The struggle and lack are affecting many that perhaps haven't experienced it before. Perhaps these times will illuminate (en masse) the need for change, for a system that lifts everyone, that is inherently fair and just, and sustainable. I hope, too, that it encourages a profound respect for those that have been living this struggle all along. Thank you, Tom, for always shedding light where it's most needed. It's the foundation for hope, and hopefully, for change.
I just finished re-reading Upton Sinclair's "The Jungle". Nothing ever changes for those of us not part of the 1%.
Sorry, but it’s all too much.
Could have skipped the pregnancy w/o any love.
And it’s about to hit people harder.
This is every day for so many people. This is a reality that politicians, CEO’s, the Peter Thiels and Elon Musks of the world are dissociated from.
The oft quoted Trickle down economics comes to mind, except what trickles down and makes a pile sure isn’t money.
In the world to come, May there be a requirement that all lawmakers at the state, federal and local levels are mandated to attend an “Unintended Consequences” seminar with the required “Making Policy that improves lives” training.
And, training on putting constituents first, as well as on the Social Contract.
At the federal level, laws are written to eliminate Citizens United, Presidential Immunity, Chevron, etc.
That would be a start, which would be felt at the kitchen table.
The cynic in me says that those individuals are not so much disassociated from this reality, but actively engineering it. Not so much ‘unintended consequences’ but very much ‘intended’. A friend was at college with PT when even then he argued that slavery was a good thing. These are their core beliefs. Desperation is part of the design.
This piece was heartbreaking. Beautifully written. Reminds me
Of “ Nickel and Dimed” written over 20 years ago. Nothing has changed, it’s worse now .
Thanks for reading!!
Some people have this idea slavery ended.
Wonderful piece. Sadly, the reality for so many.
With federal workers being furloughed, fired, and/or expected to work for no pay, week after week, many more will be making these types of choices while the Commander-in-Chief and his minions pontificate about MAGA nonsense.
Sad but true.
Beautifully written. So many of us are disturbed and need to be comforted. I’m running the math as well. Thank you, Tom.
Thank you Leslie for reading.
My heart has exploded with your writing.
This is my life in bright light.
I live this way.
After your story though I no longer feel guilty about it or ashamed.
I could write it with my numbers plugged in. That is not necessary anymore.
I have been at this now for 69 years. I think my track record is quite good. Here I am and now with eyes forward , back straight, and my exploded heart.
Thank you sir
Thank you for this. I’m deeply moved that the story spoke to you in such a direct way. To carry this life for 69 years and still stand with strength and clarity is no small thing,it’s an achievement. Your words remind me why I write.
Just your words of support are payment enough!!
I knew that. Trying to leave ya laughing. Hah!
I wish I could afford to subscribe. Hahaha
This one should be required reading before anyone gets appointed to an admin or management position. The unsparing clarity your prose brings to the reality of survival in 2025 inspires and encourages many of us to dig down deep and find the strength to persist. Thank you and please keep writing.