You already know you got hit hard on gasoline costs. I just can't wait to hear what they will approve as a COLA for Social Security in 2001. Incredibly, the majority of senior citizens supported the election and re-election of Bill Clinton without realizing his hand had been in their pocket the whole time. I can't believe Clinton got away with it. Now the good news.
Every adversity brings with it an equal or greater benefit.
That is a rule of life every successful person understands and exploits to the fullest. You need to start thinking of going into business for yourself and taking command of your life. If the employment picture seems lean and limited to low- paying service jobs, then become your own employer. Get whatever training, experience and education is necessary to make you the best in your chosen field, and then get to work. Expect to work twelve hours per day or more, seven days a week in the beginning.