Sky,

I have never thought that not working does pay—I firmly believe it does pay to try. That is the whole point of my post—you get out there and work your butt off, you do expect to get something for it. More than just a stack of bills that can’t be paid.

And no, I don’t feel guilty about people who are in dire straights. I don’t feel guilty for my house, my computer, my education or my internet connection. Do I feel grateful to have them? Heck yes. I am incredibly grateful. In my mind, owning a house is not a luxury. Its part of what I get for working a couple jobs. Besides, my mortgage is comparable to rent. It is much smarter for me to buy instead of rent because it is an investment for my future. Even if my house is in a crappy area and needs a new roof.

You see, I have lived in dire straights. I have been on the streets, I have literally lived in a box. I have had dinner out of a can. I know what its like to “shower” in a public restroom—to not be able to get a job because you don’t have clean clothes or transportation. I spent too many nights hungry and cold. That’s why this struggle is so meaningful to me. I am doing everything that I am “suppose” to be doing. And yes, I do expect rewards for all my hard work. I have worked my way out of poverty.

I am 36 years old and I don’t think that really has anything to do with my situation. It would not matter if I was 25 or 75. I firmly believe everybody who works hard deserves a warm house, medical care and food. It’s a shame there are so many people out there who are working hard and still can’t afford these things. To take it even further, I believe every human being deserves a home, medical care and food—regardless of employment.

I am fortunate to have all my “stuff.” Just because people out there have less than me does not mean I should stop trying. It does not mean I should not expect rewards for working.

***edit. I guess actually, I do have 3 jobs. I just picked up a small online job a month ago. I forgot about that,***edit