Did you ever get broke? And what did you do to cope?

I am broke now. Lost my job in November 2007 and I haven't found a job yet that pays as well. I had gotten accustomed to a certain salary and all of a sudden it was gone. No more benefits, no more retirement fund, all gone. I was born and raised in New York and moved to South Carolina 15 years ago. What a difference from living in New York. There is definitely racism here. I was laid off because they said there was not enough work for me and to make it worst, I found out that a younger, pretty caucasian woman has taken my place. I had senority over her! She was hired after me. Except for the part-time courier, I was the only African American in this office building of approximately 100 people. I contacted my ex-supervisor a couple of months ago to see if the work picked up and was told they couldn't do anything until after the presidential election. What that had to do with me, I don't know. And the law in South Carolina says that an employer can fire an employee at any time without cause. Not very fair to the employees. Thanks for letting me vent. Yes I am broke now.

It is really a horrible feeling to be broke, I have been there. I go through those in and out. I pray a lot in those times and out of them. Five years is a long time to be broke. Has she been looking for employment, can she go on unemployment until she finds a job. It must be hard on her. I'd do something to get me some kind of money, even if it is minimum wages. I had to be very careful spending money and only on things I actually need. Be very wise in spending. Good luck to your friend.

I found myself raising 4 kids on my own. tough? oh yes. I found a job and worked and didn't...still haven't missed a day.I did resort to welfare for a very short time while I found a job...it is not and should not be a way of life. Work is the only way I know to cope with this situation. I don't understand why your friend has been out of work for 5 years and not looking for a job? Surely she must have known the money would eventually run out? Is she disabled? If so she should apply for disability.

I can say that I am still broke. With the present situation now, the oil prices, rice crisis, everything went up, who can survive? Although I have regular job and a sideline work, still ain't enough for the rent, the school. I am still broke. I don't know what to do. Just waiting for a raise in my salary...

u get out & find another job as soon as u can.u use your retirement pay as a nest egg.

I live broke everyday, I not in the greatest financial state that I used to be in, now it is bad but hey I am not complaining. As long as I worship God, have my family, Have a roof over my head, a job, and a computer I am satisfied. Why I should be crying about my problems when people suffer ten times worse tan me everyday so I will simply say I live a good life.