THOUGHTS - CHAPTER ONE

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          Difficult, it is, to be materially secure when always fighting to make financial ends, when endlessly facing rising prices of food, housing, utilities, and medical care

Difficult, it is, to be healthy when health care is elusive due to high cost and insurance issues.

         Difficult, it is, to be happy, emotionally and spiritually strong when materially insecure.

          When you purchase your hamburger at McDonalds realize the person selling you that hamburger is rapidly representing the American worker. 

Cashiers, food preparation workers in that kitchen of McDonalds, laborers, janitors, construction workers are the backbone of employment in the United States. It is difficult to see meaning in such a world.

           The people before you come from households where the average monthly housing expenses totaling $6,080.00 are to be paid from an average monthly income before taxes of $5,250.00. 

            Credit card usage has become a standard part of financial management. Workers use credit cards to pay day-to-day expenses, for unexpected expenses and everything in between. For millions the only way to pay for the car repair, medical expenses, home repairs, to cover basic needs is the credit card.        Only 12% of American workers have enough savings for two months expenses.

            Out of necessity workers seek a second job to make ends meet pushing retirement back, creating a retirement crisis.