On the Inversion of Wealth

So, you don't have an income. The things you do and say hold no value to those around you except for your friends and family, because you are illegitimate. Your creativity is not appreciated because it holds no merit. You are a puff of dust that has poofed into the sky, your particles slowly dissipating to the floor.

But hold on a second. Let's not get melodramatic on a topic that is completely in your own control. Afterall, living through difficult times in a society is nothing new; it is merely a test. Even though young adults are trudging through a mucky financial landscape, there have been no bread lines or draft cards. I think that it is important to stop and think about the virtues of being young, despite being broke. Below is a brainstorm. I have a few words to say after the list to close out, so read on.

*** A LIST FOR REMAINING SANE ***

1.) Physical ability: Even though the subjective authority that your college degree has bestowed upon you currently is under siege, your body's health is completely in your control. It is your greatest tool, and it should be appreciated and treated with care.

2.) Experimentation: These times suck. At least in terms of employment. However, it is a good time to take a chance on something out of the ordinary. Jump off of a cliff (not literally: see item #1), and try on some new costumes. You may find that new interests develop because of it.

3.) Boldness: You can make some pretty loud political statements when you are young and broke. Take this opportunity to organize a reading group, discuss important matters amongst friends, host a salon, or create expressive and public social commentaries.

4.) Reading and writing: This is a big one, because it keeps your mind sharp and helps you piece together those next steps.

5.) Spiritual awareness: This may seem like a joke, but I don't really mean for it to be. If you can't afford to fill up your fridge, try fasting. It may open you up to self-discipline, detox your body, and shape your sense of empathy.

6.) Continue your education: Take the opportunity to express yourself during economic shittiness. It may make for some provocative written material that can help you get into a university, or generate some solid scholarship submissions.

7.) Rediscover humor: Stand back and try to find something funny about the situation that you are in. Imagine that you are simply viewing a film called "Me," and assess the actions and demeanor of the actor in the starring role. You may laugh at yourself, which is never a bad thing.

8.) Explode: This one might get dangerous, but if exercised with that self-discipline that you found in #5, it could work incredible wonders. Splurge by dancing, singing, yelling in the woods, swinging from a rope, swinging on swings. In short, be a kid and break out of your obligatory role as a responsible adult. If you are actively trying to be a responsible adult and are blocked by the fucked up social situation, let your inner kid out amidst your quest for that next job. Afterall, releasing your most organic self out into the open is still the most original thing in the world.

***

I hope that this brainstorm worked a little bit for those that are either trying to find work, or are frustrated by their current living situation. Overall, it is important to be positive and try to be an active part in shaping reality.

Remember your elders, as far as family, friends and mentors go. As it's been said before, "Take it easy, but take it."