I have no idea what a "living wage" is anymore, so I do apologize.

Today so many things appear to be "necessities" and I can't identify with "today's lifestyle"...

I don't mean to offend... but there are some who have cell phones, televisions, computers and internet service, air conditioning, bottled water, soda, fast food and a number of other "necessities" that cost way more than what I lived with when I was a poor person... meaning limited electricity and water usage, no car, no phone, no hospitalization, not even enough money to use foodstamps as it was more than my budget could afford!... etc.

However, regardless ... really... I'm concerned that you are heading yourself in the wrong direction... merely stating that wherever you are headed is not good is a state of mind no one needs nor wants to be in, right? You don't really know what is in store for you... ...no one (but God, imo) does... why not try to be up for the challenges and opportunities ahead... each day a new beginning, a chance to see what you're made of and how creative you can get...being content no matter what your "plight"?

sorry, I do feel for you, but can no longer identify.

Try correcting that thought with something more palatable