I have lived a very fortunate life. Most people would describe my lifestyle as Upper Middle Class: Spring Break trips every year, I am able to drive around a family car with no expense to me, large house, pets, cable, etc. Today, my mother was laid off from her management position at SBC, where she has been working for decades. She was still meeting her sales quota, and even broke records for the largest sales ever. However, SBC merged with AT&T and she has lost her job. My family is in a position where we could survive on solely my father's income, which we may have to do, but some changes will inevitably follow. I know I probably have the one of the least plights to complain about, but this is my first major setback in life. I know I can overcome it, but I feel very sorry for my mother.
QED
Jay