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Just because you point out some things this woman could do for herself and her family in her present circumnstances (and some resources available) doesn't mean you don't have compassion for her and her situation. Also, I know plenty of people who live on far less than $15 an hour; it isn't easy and it ain't preferable, but there are adjustments you can make in a lifestyle (I know, I've done it). I remember reading a story a few years ago about a wealthy Florida builder who had gone bankrupt and into hard times; his wife complained that the best she could do for work was in a department store as a clerk and I don't know what he tried to do. Anyway, they could make it in reduced circumstances but the lack of country clubs, high-end meals and making the impression got to these people so much that they decided to commit suicide and kill their ten-year old son. I'm not saying that situation is analogous to the one in the story; its probably far from it, but the bottom line is that sometimes you have to adjust to changed circumstances and you adjust as best you can, even if it involves moving to another city, taking help from relatives, or working at Starbuck's.

the bottom line is that sometimes you have to adjust to changed circumstances and you adjust as best you can, even if it involves moving to another city, taking help from relatives, or working at Starbuck's.

Yep... I don't understand that FL builder dude you told about. I've been working on the bottom rung for as long as I've been working and got used to it-- nothing better than gettin' off minimum wage job and heading to the bar to blow all yer pocket money on cheap comfort... Country club shmuntry club. It's the small things in life. I never tried to impress anybody with anything more'n my wit. (Hehehe...)

One thing I hope I never get used to, is having money. I've been living on the edge all my life and I hope I never lose that feeling even if (when?) it's unwarranted. I read too many stories like this one, even if it is hokey-- I've read many more real ones about all the engineers in this country losing their shirts to India...