As a functioning member of society I am experiencing my first recession. We have had many in the past and I don’t imagine this will be my last.

Its odd how this thing is panning out; If your neighbor loses their job it’s a real shame however if you lose your job; it’s a recession. I am coming to find that being in a recession people are more caught up with dodging bullets than embracing their neighbors. I suppose in a capitalist environment there is little room to carry the burdens others as we are a paycheck away from disaster as well.

The idea of the “strongest will survive” is dead in times like this. The guy that pushes the mop that can easily be dropped is on the same level as the prominent accountant from that once prestigious firm.

The recession is a drag for those that banked their whole retirement based on their 401ks and RSPs and I can only think “how did we not see this coming?” Like seriously. Its upsetting to see the 50 something’s all scrambling, dodging bullets and dreading the thoughts of “re-training.” How do you retrain a 55 year old whose only experience is their entire life? How do you learn that in school?

The sun isn’t any brighter for people graduating either. On the drive to work today I got listening to a discussion on the radio about college grads not having work when they graduated. A lot of them were crying poverty and others were embracing it. The pressures of “getting into their career” were removed from them and they were free to do as they please – even follow their dreams and passions!?!

In a weird and maybe twisted way…. Can I say I am happy to see a recession? Please note I am not trying to rub it into those who have lost their jobs but think positively for a second. If by losing or at least having fewer hours, do you not have more time for other things that really matter – Friends, family, hobbies, volunteering or maybe even your neighbor? Do you have more time on your hands? If you can spare sometime from financial worry do you not find yourself feeling a little freer?

I want to see everyone “doing well” however I am more concerned with people connecting with each other and really partaking in community with one another. I would love to see everyone work less, have less and be in less debt. If the recession has provided people with thoughts about not going crazy into debt or forced people to live more simply then I applaud the recession in some odd and crazy way.