I'm just having a hard time getting over this. What's so good about work again?
Seriously, it is surprising to me that someone (especially on this message board!) feels that way.
While I also find the message "disturbing", I understand why it may be made, especially if it's from a younger person (anyway - younger than me, at age 60
).
As my parents before me (born in the Depression) or my grandparents (all four emigrated from Europe after WWI with little more than the clothes on their back), I went through some "difficult times".
Not to hold a "pity me party", but just as an example, I was "required" to start work (full time) at a family business at the age of 13. What was full time? Every day I did not go to school, I was at work (10-12 hour shifts, at no pay - hey, I was getting room/board!). That included all weekends, holidays, and summer "vacations" (what's that?). When I graduated from HS (only one of my parents did), I was given the option. Work at "the business" on a 7-day week schedule, or get a job and give 50% of any net pay for my room/board.
As for "higher education" (e.g. college/university) - that was not an option, given the "maturity" of my parents
.
Luckly, there was this thing called the "draft". I was called, I left home, and never returned.
If the "measurement" is from age 13 of starting work, till a bit over age 59 when I retired, that means that I've been "gainfully employed" for 46+ years.
Sorry, but I have no desire to hit the 50-year mark.
I'm retired and very happy with my life these days. No way would I want to return to any j*b where I am told what to do, when to do it, and how to do it.
My "freedom" was well earned, thank you very much.
(Sorry to rant, but I'm feeling like it, today
...)
- Ron