I have been seeking employment to no avail. The listings are getting slimmer. The experience sought has become more specific to the cause in the non-profit sector. In recent days, the media has questioned and devalue the undergraduate degree.
This morning I read a post about volunteering, with my time available and with my strong sense of social service, I explored volunteer opportunities for youth services in my area to find no opportunities presently available.
Sure I can fill my day between the employment search, domestic responsibilities, reading and writing my blog, working on my manuscript, crocheting scarfs and blankets, but yet I am left feeling a void in my sense of purpose and contribution to society.
I look out the window the ground is blanketed with snow, in the forecast there is more to come. Yesterday, I read the local children’s home for emotionally disturbed girls are closing their doors, the residents are being sent elsewhere due to the increasing expenses and lack of state funding. So much for providing them with a stable environment.
I know how to survive. I have people who I love and who love me. I still have a roof over my head, although it’s in need of repair. The snow will melt. I’ll plant the farm. Yet, I feel helpless with these larger issues, as an outsider to the cause. I can search the catalogs order the seeds, seedlings, and potato starters and then wait. I’ve been thinking about raising chicks for eggs.
I’ve become very good at waiting and watching as the most vulnerable are denied services, as doors close, as school programs are cut, as the prices of goods and services rise, and the middle class vanishes. But, don’t question or devalue the quality of my education. I have an open mind and a voice. My arena is the world.
Can you hear me? Please share your comments.
Image: dukemagazine.duke.edu (no affiliation)
Aligaeta's Blog 
I can only imagine the frustration you feel. It sounds like the economy in your area isn’t rebounding at all. I do hope things turn around for you.
Our area has seen many layoffs and there is always something on the news about the deficit and budget cuts. I worry a lot about education and if my kids are learning what they need to in order to function later in life.
Thank you for your good wishes.
As for your children’s education, what I have learned they need most is the strength to deal with the BS from other kids, the meaning of responsibility and ethics. These things they don’t learn in school. They learn these things at home. Have them read stories that build character. And finally, introduce them to careers and trades that are growing and inform them as to how to get where they want to go. These are the areas I found our education systems is lacking. When the kids get a crappy math teacher be ready to teach them math. You need to be their best teacher. They will soar with your guidance.
Your passion and strength speaks loudly.
Thank you, SM.
Today, I entered ten free events to my calendar over the next eight weeks taking place throughout the City University System, featuring great authors and activists. I have so much to look forward to.