In the meantime. A conversation about our economy.

Holidays overtook life for awhile. Will be back in a few days. In the meantime, I'm thinking over and over about where we are at this unusual time.  I will always be optimistic about our country and our world because I really can't fathom or stomach anything else. But things seem out of whack. Where individualism is way more important than the common good. Where our market economy is providing much less for the many and much more for the few.

I just talked to an employee in a local shipping store. A congenial, smart person who always provides good customer service. Out of curiosity, I asked if Corporation Y provides good benefits. He cocked his head and said, No, we don't have benefits; this is a franchise, not part of the namesake corporation. So, I asked him a few more questions. Turns out he works full time. Actually, more than that. At least 50 plus hours per week. Hourly pay. No overtime. No health care. No dental. No bonuses. He mentioned that he needs dental work. $800 worth. Will go ahead and schedule it. Put it on his credit card. Or eat less. Or put off paying his utility bill. He's reluctant to say anything. His boss would respond, I have ten more people who'll take this job...  In the midst of all the holiday cheer, I wonder... What kind of country is this where this is now considered OK? What kind of employer? What kind of workplace? What kind of community?