90% Employment!

There was an atmosphere of depression yesterday at our employment center. When asked how their day went the job seekers had different responses.

            "My day sucked," said one young man.

            "I went to half a dozen places," said another. "But no one was hiring."

            "I pass," said another man.

And so it went around the room. A dark cloud hung over everyone, permeating the atmosphere.

Finally the program director spoke up. He said that when they were on the streets seeking drugs or alcohol they never gave up. When they went to the dope house to buy drugs they didn't give up if the dealer was sold out. Instead, they kept looking until they found what they were seeking. When they didn't have money for alcohol they went shoplifting or panhandling. Nothing stopped them from getting drunk or high. Therefore, why should they let anything stop them when they're trying to rebuild their lives?

He also made the point that 10% unemployment really means 90% employment – a positive thing.

As the meeting broke up several clients thanked the director for his positive message.