Unemployed – the interview

You’ve been in a weird mood this week, Joe.  Up, then down, then really down, then . . . what gives?

Well, I was employed Monday morning, and then I was filling out unemployment insurance Monday afternoon.  Sole-breadwinner, you know . . . so I suppose the roller-coaster emotional state is to be expected.

Seriously?

Seriously what?  That I’m the sole-breadwinner or that I’m unemployed?

That you’re unemployed.  You were fighting so hard, what happened?

I wasn’t alone, brother.  There were a bunch of us.  We were all fighting.  And yes, we are all now unemployed.  It sucks.  Figure it’s been in the news enough, though, so I can now mention it here.  MPC closed it’s doors forever on Monday.

Man.  That’s rough.  Um.  I don’t mean any offense, but I sense a a little bitterness.

Yeah?  Well, of course.  When you are let down like that, I don’t know, seems a natural response.  Given my faith, I know I really should be thankful–I mean, clearly, there must be better things planned for me in this, the onset of the next chapter of my life.  But, I’m human, too.  It’s not offered as an excuse, of course.  I’m fighting the urge and striving to be bigger than bitterness.

I think I can understand where you are coming from, man.  Was it handled, well, with dignity?

No.  It happened when virtually everyone was on break for the holidays.  Happy New Year, we’re closing the doors.

Well, now, clearly there must have been reasons forcing the poor timing of the event.  I mean, MPC isn’t the only company suffering.  At least you got severance, right?

No.  No severance.

Ouch.  Well, now that I think about it, the previous layoffs didn’t involve severance either, though.  That does suck.  Everyone received continued Medical Coverage for a time, at least?

No.  Medical Coverage terminated immediately.

Shut up. Well, I suppose in these tough times, companies have to save every penny, especially when they move into Liquidation.  The Creditor Committee has to get paid, afterall.  Hey, at least you got your accrued time off paid, even at 50%, right?

No.  While they were happy to pay it out while we were on holiday break, they say that all of our personally accrued time off was forfeited on the date of the filing of Chapter 11.  Therefore, the accrued time off being paid out is only what was accrued from the date of the filing to the time of liquidation.  In other words–not much.  At 50%, I’m not sure there will even be a full day’s hours paid out.

Um.  Well.  Hmmm.  Is . . . is that even legal?  What about the Warn Act?

No clue.  Don’t really have time to worry about it right now.  I’ve got to go find a job.  Next mortgage payment is due shortly, as is the kid’s school payment.  Really hoping it’s a legitimate career this time around.  Preferably with people who value ethics and morality.

Are you going to hit me if I wish you a Happy New Year?

No.  No.  Not at all.  Afterall, I’m really fighting to keep from being bitter.

Well, now you qualify for some schooling and stuff through Dept. of Labor, right?

Well, it’s a good program for sure . . . but it’s stacked against me, really.  I can’t cover my expenses if I am bound by their restrictions, which means I can’t take advantage of the training/schooling provisions.  Basically, I’m on my own.

But what about that comment you made earlier?  The one about your faith?

Ha!  Good call, brother.  Good call.  You’re absolutely right.  I’m not on my own.