Signs of the Times---Truly Grateful Series
The library where I work was front page news last week. Unfortunately, it was not good news. It was announced that we would be reducing the number of hours that we are open to the public. Because state funding has been reduced, cuts have to be made. These reduced hours are being implemented in spite of the fact that the usage of our library is up by 20%.
Although the number of hours I work has not yet been cut, they may be cut in the near future. Currently, my schedule is being shifted around to accommodate the new hours we are open at the library. I will be working different times on different days than I am now but will still be working the same number of hours that I have been working.
This is partly due to the fact that my department is still short handed because one of my coworkers is on an extended family leave due to her daughter's health. I will also still be working the same number of hours because in order for the library to remain open, my particular position is one that is necessary to keep filled.
Because I work at the circulation desk which must be covered all hours that we are open, I still have my job. Some of my fellow library workers who work behind the scenes at the library such as those in the technical services department are not so fortunate. Our cleaning staff has already been laid off, and we who remain have been asked to take over their duties as well as the ones we already had.
What is happening at the library is not an isolated event, by far. Unemployment is high in our part of the state. It seems hardly a day passes without news of some cutbacks or layoffs being made somewhere in our area. Many people here have been affected by the downturn in the economy.
Over the weekend, our local Kmart store closed its doors permanently. It could not compete with the super Wal-Mart across the street. Those who worked there are now out of jobs. This is the second store and employer to go out of business because it could not compete with Wal-Mart. Earlier a large locally owned grocery store closed because it could not keep up.
Because of our proximity to Detroit, there are many factories and businesses in this area which make car parts to supply to the major car manufacturers. Many of these factories have either had heavy layoffs of their personnel or have closed down entirely.
My older son, now home for the summer from college is hoping to find a summer job. Although he is going through the motions, filling out applications, making the rounds, and asking about possibility of employment everywhere and anywhere he can think of, our hopes are slim that he will be able to find a job. Most jobs normally filled by teenagers and young adults here are being filled by adults who have lost their higher paying jobs elsewhere.
In spite of all of this, we are still very fortunate. We have our home and our health. My husband has a secure full-time job and for now, I still have my part-time job. Who knows what tomorrow will bring, but for now we are doing OK.
Lord, for the blessings of employment, good health, and good fortune and all that you have provided for us even during these difficult times, please let me be truly grateful.
