[ottbmare]

Of course you're right--she can't be going about this in the right way. You'd know, you're a professional in this. And I know you didn't say you had no sympathy for the woman. After all you've suffered, you must have a great deal of compassion in your heart, for suffering makes us understand the sufferings of others.

But it seems there are many Freepers who are filled with hostility toward anyone who is out of work for a long time, and they invariably blame the unemployed person. They seem very threatened by the idea that it's really, really tough out there in the job market if you aren't actually living near the Bakken.

I just had this argument with someone yesterday. Even though I'm currently employed (sort of: two part-time jobs and a home business), several Freepers have accused me of all sorts of awfulness because I went through a long period of unemployment. Bad news: things are so terrible in the job market now that even good, smart, determined people may not be able to get jobs, especially if they're older or have a typical mom resume.

[2ndDivisionVet]

I will say, here and now, that I will help any FReeper or their family until they find a decent job, no matter how long it takes. They only have to FReepmail me a resume and I will search out jobs in their area (or where they want to work) and send them in groups of four for them to apply.