The unemployment stories that About.com site visitors have shared with us are, for the most part, very painful to read. They are sad and sometimes they are heartbreaking.
I can't imagine, I really can't, what it's like to be someone who has worked their whole life, thought they were set for retirement, and then to lose everything.
Some of those who graciously shared their stories worked for 20 or 30 years at the same company. Others for less, but were really close to retirement, but not close enough. Their 401ks are gone. Their houses are gone, their cars are gone, and they've given up on trying to pay the bills. Because there is no money to pay them. Sometimes there is not even food to put on the table.
People have lost jobs they hated and lost jobs they loved. They'd take them back in a heartbeat - irregardless. Most, like Roger, just want a chance.
Every once in a while though, though granted in only a few of the 1000+ stories, there is a glimmer of hope.
There is a sustaining faith, in many, that God will help, in the end. In others, albeit only a few of them, there is a sucess story. There is someone who found a better job, went back to school, and came out on the upside of a very down market.
Those who have been gracious enough to share their stories, have also shared their tips and advice on getting by on unemployment.
If you have a few moments, read some of the unemployment stories - they provide a picture, though not a pleasant one - of what it's like to be out of work in America today.
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