A Pause to Consider Others

So, this is not our typical post; however, I feel it is quite appropriate. As you know, the economy is not the best, and this is unfortunately effected my employer as well. We found out this week that our company (as many others) are having to take cost-cutting measures. Of this, we are being "forced" to take some vacation during December. While some may see this as an opportunity to spend more time relaxing with friends/family (of which I agree), others will not see this "opportunity" in such a way.

This post is about those other people.

Our company hires contractors to provide services to our facility. This involves the cleaning crews and the cafeteria crews. These groups of people found out today that if they do not have enough vacation saved to last during this shut-down period in December, that they will be forced to stay home with-out pay.

When I first heard the announcement, shamefully I must admit it didn't really sink in. It wasn't until I was standing in line in the cafeteria, waiting to pay for lunch, when I saw the lady in front of me. That's when it hit me. The look on her face spoke a million words of "how am I going to pay for my kids presents?", "how will I pay my bills?", "why at this time of the year?".

I had to fight back tears. So many people in this country work where hourly wages are imperative to their survival. Unfortunately, it is this same group of people who when the economy turns, they are the first effected. These people in my building did nothing wrong, they have come to work everyday, and now they have found out that 2 weeks of pay (during Christmas, no less) most likely will be taken from them.

I just ask that as we enter into this holiday season that we remember that a lot of people out there are not wondering "should I buy this toy or that", "should I go do this or that". These people are just praying that they can pay their bills and maybe still have enough to buy their babies at least one gift.