Who's On Unemployment Abbott/ Costello by Barry Levinson

Barack Obama explaining jobs and the economy,
By: Barry Levinson, of the HuffingtonPost. 

Enjoy!

 
COSTELLO: I want to talk about the unemployment rate in America .

ABBOTT: Good Subject. Terrible Times. It's 9%.

COSTELLO: That many people are out of work?

ABBOTT: No, that's 16%.

COSTELLO: You just said 9%.

ABBOTT: 9% Unemployed.

COSTELLO: Right 9% out of work.

ABBOTT: No, that's 16%.

COSTELLO: Okay, so it's 16% unemployed.

ABBOTT: No, that's 9%...

COSTELLO: WAIT A MINUTE. Is it 9% or 16%?

ABBOTT: 9% are unemployed. 16% are out of work.

COSTELLO: IF you are out of work you are unemployed.

ABBOTT: No, you can't count the "Out of Work" as the unemployed. You
have to look for work to be unemployed.

COSTELLO: BUT THEY ARE OUT OF WORK!!!

ABBOTT: No, you miss my point.

COSTELLO: What point?

ABBOTT: Someone who doesn't look for work, can't be counted with
those who look for work. It wouldn't be fair.

COSTELLO: To who?

ABBOTT: The unemployed.

COSTELLO: But they are ALL out of work.

ABBOTT: No, the unemployed are actively looking for work...
Those who are out of work stopped looking.
They gave up.
And, if you give up, you are no longer in the ranks of
the unemployed.

COSTELLO: So if you're off the unemployment roles, that would count
as less unemployment?

ABBOTT: Unemployment would go down. Absolutely!

COSTELLO: The unemployment just goes down because you don't look for work?

ABBOTT: Absolutely it goes down. That's how you get to 9%. Otherwise
it would be 16%. You don't want to read about 16% unemployment do ya?

COSTELLO: That would be frightening.

ABBOTT: Absolutely.

COSTELLO: Wait, I got a question for you. That means they're two ways
to bring down the unemployment number?

ABBOTT: Two ways is correct.

COSTELLO: Unemployment can go down if someone gets a job?

ABBOTT: Correct.

COSTELLO: And unemployment can also go down if you stop looking for a job?

ABBOTT: Bingo.

COSTELLO: So there are two ways to bring unemployment down, and the
easier of the two is to just stop looking for work.

ABBOTT: Now you're thinking like an economist.

COSTELLO: I don't even know what the hell I just said!

Now you know why nationally reported unemployment figures are improving, and you
should now understand the State of the Union .

2012 An Interesting Year for the U.S.

Election Year - 2012

I believe that America is a great place to live which was founded under the constitution by our forefathers One Nation Under God...with liberty and justice for all.  We are a great nation made up of millions of amazing people who have different beliefs and are free to walk the path they have chosen.

About me: I am a woman of faith.  That faith is as much a part of me and unchangeable as my DNA.  I don't impose my faith on others, but will share it.  I don't impose my core values on others, but will share them. If I believe something I'm going to stand up for it.  I am not perfect but will be when I get to heaven, so don't be confused with the timing and think that is now.  I analyze things to determine my own motives and thoughts along with just trying to understand the issue better for myself.  I don't do it to point a finger of blame.  I sometimes do think out loud and work through issues in the process.  I like to think that by the time I leave this earth I will have left a baby finger print in my own star and will be remembered for the good and not the bad.

Anyone who knows me, knows I hate politics and political agendas, rhetoric, spin and MOST OF ALL party bias 'bashing'.  Don't try to label me by 'party' because I have no party bias.  I used to be a democrat, I used to be a republican but now I am just Val and could likely not be labeled accept for more of an independent.

Red Flags: Spin politics, hidden agendas, leaders with true motives behind agenda items and timing all just for personal gain, BUT most of all I am saddened that we as American's buy this and find it acceptable.

Going into any election year is a two edged sword for America.  On one side it brings change and that can be good, but on the other side it brings out the worst in all of us.  DON'T KID YOURSELF, the politicians count on that, just listen to them and then watch the poster statements and photos go up on social networks.  Today I'm making a promise to myself.  I am determined to remember that God has a plan. (I know some don't believe, but I do, again not imposing my beliefs on you, if you happen to be reading this, but sharing.)  He is going to carry it out no matter who stands for who and/or what.  He already knows who will be presiding as President over the U.S. in January 2013.  It's not necessarily because they will be the best person for the job, but because there is a much bigger picture in God's plan, and that is what choose to focue on and  find peace in as the fight begins, and the outcome of this year's election comes upon the U.S.

My Vote will go to who I believe is best suited for the job.  But what is the job this next term?  In my eyes, the job will NOT require focus on social issues, They've had plenty of focus over the years, costing the country a fortune already.  The job is going to be about jobs, economy, and fiscal responsibility, but it is also going to be giving my vote to the person who stands for our constitution and not basterdizing that.

Here's my dream for America this election year:  Wouldn't it be a refreshing to have a candidate that exhibits honesty, integrity and has the potential of being a great leader with no intentions of personal gain or agendas?  If we had a candidate on the ballot for 2012, who would commit to this promise: "I'm in this for you, not for me and to prove this I ask to serve only one term AND following that term I relinquish any claim to pension, benefits and other personal perks normally received after leaving office" "I cannot and will not be bought."  

I know you're thinking "Val, you're crazy if you think that would actually happen, no one is going to step up and offer that!" 

I can dream, right?  I mean, no one can take my dreams away, right...or can they?

It's just me, Val ~ Ciao!

How's This Working For US America?

Duking it out over political views with friends and colleagues as well as those we don't know at all, do you find it bothersome? A good rule to live by is to stay away from engaging in and expressing your views as it relates to religion and politics.  Problem is there seems to be so much at stake for us personally that causes us out of desperation to passionately embrace 'duking' and 're-duking' our views.  I know for some this is fun, interesting and competitive in spirit but for me, it's gutt wrenching to see the emotions cut through to the quick. In so many instances I feel like politicians easily insult the intelligence.  Stands taken normally center around beliefs and fear of losing rights  but this election year seems to be different.  It's hugely based on economical slowdown and jobloss issues not improving, and balanced budgets and 'actual' numbers used in reporting things like 'unemployment', not working.  Social issues seems to have taken a backseat this year for many voters, even for the extremes.  

Timing is everything...

The POTUS now focusing on jobs and economy for the people vs. Corporate America, while that is in itself a good thing, it is disheartening that this type issues weren't given priority 3 years ago, for the people, not just Corporate America.

Then you have a Congress that is focused on the issues of balanced budgets and the like that also stymie their progress in passing anything.  It's all a gridlock and everyone is to blame, not just one side or the other.

In the meantime, the people of America get all sucked into their (the politicians) game of politics for what we all feel is in the best interest of the U.S. but if we all really look at the 'soul' 'core' reason, I'll give you 3 to 1 odds that it's just because we want to support our own party no matter what and it's not about the best person for the job anymore.

I think many voters are feeling this way, America is being led into voter personal attacks on one another in part by our politicians actions, words, and lack there of.  We are ripping into each other's values, belief systems and the like for the sake of ???   This is all supposed to be in the best interest of you and I, the U.S. Citizens and instead it's tearing us apart.  What is wrong with this picture?

While we're all so afraid for our party losing as well as our rights, we are raising our dukes and losing it all for the party's leaders sakes who are drawing us in.  We are making them all very rich people, if they weren't already, all sides.  

AMERICA, How's that working for US?

It's Just me Val, Ciao!

New Years Resolution "Have Fun"

Fresh Starts, New Road, Let Go, Promises Promises

Today being the first of 365 in 2012, is the day everyone firmly commits to 'do whatever it takes, pull out all the stops, and go after a goal, or two'.  Many actually do it and walk with their head held high, I have too.  This year is no different however I'm changing it up. I'm going to make it fun every step of the way.  It's a short list this year and a reasonable one:

1. Eat Healthy
2. Drink Lots of Water daily
3. Walk daily
4. Strength Train 2 days a week
5. Take a class
6. Write

Does anyone care?  Likely not....here is the change up:

So all this girl wants to do is make sure to reach my goals and have fun doing that!  

I'm on a bridge between youth and the golden years; FUN seems attractive as I cross it!  

I'm on a bridge on the road in life that goes only one way

If I mess this up there's a price to pay

Life can be boring or we can make it fun and sweet

Keep in mind, that which you sow; you reap

So 2012 you WILL be my friend

I commit to have fun in all I do to the very end

Off with protective shields, people pleasing and cares

I'm on a mission; I'll have FUN all the way "I swear!"

If this year throws me lemons, I'll use them for their zest

Add a little flavor to my life, and toss all the rest!

I'll choose my own moves...only the best will do

A little Jagger and swagger before I'm through

This game of life goes by way too fast

2012 You Are My Year

Crossing this bridge will be a blast!!!

Movin On Down My Highway

As I reflect on the past 12 months, I truly have so much to be grateful for...

A year filled with growth for our family and business.  When the economy and jobs have failed in such a serious way, God has blessed us richly with a peace this year that I haven't felt in forever it seems.  It's that "I know that I know" that all will work out kind of peace, and for our good.  One that has a natural joy attached to it.  Oh challenges for us have of course been involved but in all things we overcame and what's still challenging seems like a mountain that we can climb.  Really what a great year we've had even with the challenges.  What changed for me this year?

Quiet Time

I seriously made a commitment this year to do my daily quiet time, and maybe that is what brought on the level of peace I feel through my time just listening to that voice, for me it's God, for you it is whatever takes you to that serene place of peace and joy, hopefully on the same highway as mine, I wouldn't know.

Turning Over a New Leaf

I definitely experienced a new me transform as I walked down the highway of 2011.  It really began in the last quarter of 2010 when changes in relationships along my way just began and I was feeling odd.  I found this new book by John Bevere "The Bait of Satan" and it really did help me to see the other side of life in a way that helped me rise above what initially was painful offense.  Anyone who knows me well, knows my bend for analyzing every situation to death and I did, but this book helped me to view offenses as opportunities and to get to a point where you can describe the entire feeling in 5 words.  That's important because it stops that never ending cycle of rehashing painful times until you build walls of defense...sooner or later your walls grow so tall, long and wide that noone can break through them and you live alone with yourself in what you think is protection.  That's no way for anyone to live and this book helped me overcome the appetite for building walls and instead see things with a wide angled lens.  This opened up a whole new purpose for any relationship in my life and though offenses still come, I go back to the concept in his writings and remember to come up with the 5 words that best describe how  I am allowing myself to feel in this pain.  I can choose to talk to the person about it, OR in my case just coming up with the words, actually helped me to heal without having to go any further.  It was such a wonderful cure.  If you haven't read this book, I recommend it!

Fitting Into My Skin

Yes 'Fitting Into My Skin' is also something that has changed for me this year.  We all get older in age right?  Some of us stop midlife to have a 'crisis' while others try to just psyche ourselves out through various methods of having the mind meet the body in grace...makes me chuckle as I feel my way down this highway...it is a comical one to experience and watch as others 'tip toe' through the same 'tulips' I do.  I believe there is a freedom we get when we finally accept the chapter of life we're in and just 'fit into our skin' at that point.  My freedom is to enjoy watching others have their own kind of fun where they're at in life and not feel that I have failed if I don't feel like being a part of it.  No, instead I love this new chapter of my life.  It's like putting on a fresh new pair of glasses with 20/20 vision, acting my age, not too old and not so young, and still feeling like I'm living life to it's fullest.  Oh I know, 58 isn't old, but when you consider it's only 22 years away from 80 and how fast 20 years flies?  It gives you a whole new perspective on how far down the highway one is in life at 58. Nonetheless, I happen to love this age and all the freedom that goes along with it!

Letting Go

Absolutely the key and my faith framing 'letting go' has got to be mentioned here.  I have to be true to me, to God, to my husband, family and friends, BUT if I don't let go of past issues, worry, control, and all those things that can make you crazy, guess what?  I will go crazy!  I work daily at letting go of anything that is on my mind and letting God handle it.  A friend of mine once taught me to write your cares and worries on a small piece of paper, roll it up and put it in a bookcase.  Now it's God's to handle, don't go back to it.  I loved that but never could put it to practice.  Virtual has a whole new meaning for me this year as I virtually note any of my cares, and roll it up placing it in my virtual file for God to handle.  It seems to be working.  Am I tempted to revisit it, sure am, but I let go of that temptation each time.

New Hobby

I have a new hobby, I people watch...NO not stare, but rather I just now enjoy watching everyone walk down their highway of life and learn for themselves what works best for them.  Oh, I still will give my opinion if they are open to it, but I leave it there and I don't force my way on anyone anymore.  (now my husband might disagree with this, but I am still working on this when it comes to my own marriage :)  I'm not perfect at this by any means but I am keenly aware of the benefits this hobby has for living a longer life without worry so I work to achieve more and more of this skill in my hobby daily.

AND So...

I truly have so much to be grateful for...I have reconnected with so many family and friends through social networks and even had the honor of participating in planning and attending my 40th highschool reunion (Go Rough Riders!).  Our business is thriving through a jungle of economic downturn and turmoil, my marriage is getting more and more amazing every year, my kids are growing daily and really transforming into beautiful people.  And btw...when I say 'my kids' I include our daughterinlaw and soninlaw. AND...we just finished a fantastic vacation (1st for us in almost 5 years), met knew friends and hope to do a repeat with our kids in 2012!  Oh and even our animals, and we have a zoo here, are doing well.  (I must say...I will forever miss our Buff, for those that don't know, we had a beautiful baby golden that turned 'alpha' in our pack of 3 and we had to give her up to a great family.  I do miss you Buff!)  So now that I have gotten my eyes all watery after sharing how great our year has been, giving Buff away was the sad point of the year for me personally...think I better leave it here :)  

Happy New Year everyone!   Blessings to all of YOU in 2012!!!  

(Jeremiah 29:11 is a promise we have)

AND, in the words of our daughter..."Bring it on!" 

It's Just Me Val, Ciao!

Turning Offenses Into Opportunities

Do you get offended by friends easily.  Do you let the offenses mount up until you start to build a wall between you and the friend?  You're not alone and there's a better way to deal with this.

I am the type of person that can't squash an offense.  I have to talk it out, usually by myself in a form of chair therapy, or driving in the car (my eyes watching for cars driving up so they don't think I'm crazy talking to myself, handsfree phones help justify the lip motion)  OR I have to use a confidant, usually my husband to bounce my feelings off of.  And then I bounce it off of God.  Everytime I have done this, I have a heavy burden lifted off of me as I work through my own feelings and make sense of the offense.  And if it is multiple offenses from the same person?  Well then it just takes me abit longer to work through my own person and step outside to get a better glimpse of the situation.  

Recently I found this book by John Bevere "The Bait Of Satan" which deals with the issue of offenses in life.  

Bevere says (in a nutshell) Our lives are meant to be a vessel for the Lord to reach others.  We must get past the offense to leave that opportunity for the Lord to do His work through us.  

Bevere goes on to suggest that it's normal to become offended but important to get past it, even if you have to take a 30 day break from the relationship, and then come back, you must address it so it doesn't take root in that relationship and hurt it.  

The enemy uses offenses to take root in our lives and build walls between others, friend, relative, or whomever. (don't you find this to be true?  I do.  I have built several walls of protection in my life and all they do is block out one relationship after another)   

Bevere goes on to suggest that we need to get past all the offenses and narrow the issue down to 5 words that best describe what we're feeling, then go to the person and share from our heart without rehashing each incident.  

I had a friend once that changed their life around and they became very confident in themselves...good I guess.  Their delivery also changed and it really was becoming more and more offensive.  Before too long I had a long list that I rattled off to my husband that had occurred over a period of months and he looked at me and said "Wow, you're right, I hadn't thought about it in chronological order like that and when you put it all together, now I'm mad!"  I had managed to succinctly share the experiences that we had both been having in such a way that I soured him too.  "What Is Wrong With That Picture?"  

Well it was all true but I had been squashing the offenses for so long trying to get past it all that now I had a full chapter of a book with them in order and tainted that person's intent and delivery, even in another's impressions of them.  Wrong, Wrong, Wrong!!!  

This is not a productive way of handling offense.  I really took time to think through what was going on and I prayed of course and with the help of Bevere's suggestions, I narrowed it down to 5 words and erased each incident.  The 5 words?  "You made us feel disposable" 

Finding those 5 words was so freeing.  I was now able to see things from a different perspective.  I was able to let go of each incident and see things from their perspective.  Truth was they were in a new chapter of life and were swirling with excitement and fun and didn't even realize they were being offensive at all.  Have I ever personally addressed it, no but I have a good relationship with them once again and I am in a position to be there for them which is the goal.

There are ways we were taught in the past to handle these situations for instance in Henry Clouds book called Boundaries, we're taught to set boundaries and not allow them to be broken.  While this is a good idea for morals and values, I believe we have taken the Boundaries idea too far and have instead built walls.  The enemy uses those walls to harden our hearts.  Not Good!

Try this in your own life and let me know if it worked.  Think on what all the offense really is making you feel, narrow it down to five words, and if you have to, go to the person and explain it to them.  Sometimes that step is necessary to get back in relationship, so if that's true for you DO IT and don't wait.

People are human and make mistakes, almost always what's really behind it has nothing to do with us, but rather it is due to what turn their life has taken.

Mindfully keeping a thankful heart for everyone in my life, and using Bevere's suggestion to handle hiccups, I now am able to lift these situations up and ask for guidance on getting my 5 words down so I can tear down walls, and get out of the construction business for good!  It's Just Me, Val  Ciao!

Thankful Heart for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving means a turkey, stuffing, pumpkin pie, and more made in love.
So many things to be thankful for and a few are of course our freedom and those that have fought to maintain that freedom.  Yes, thanks from our hearts goes to those wonderful service men and women.  Without them we would not have this wonderful land we live in, the United States of America.

Thanksgiving means time with family.  I've always dreamed of a family moment around the table saying one thing we're thankful for but in our family we miss much of that comfort level among many.  Thus there is a silent thank you across all hearts during grace.

Speaking of Grace?

Thanksgiving brings to mind what I personally am thankful for and I would have none of it without one very important mention.  My relationship with my Lord.

Such a bumpy childhood, But God
Such a challenge to make the grade in school, But God
Such a low self esteem in much of my adolescence, But God
Such an adjustment with transient homelife, But God
Such a void in furthering education for a career, But God
Such a miracle in the birth of my daughter Lyndsi Elizabeth, Yeah God!
Such a challenge in supplying our needs with my daughter as a single parent, But God
Such an answer to prayer in finding our first homechurch, Yeah God
Such a connection of friends in our first homechurch, Yeah God
Such an opportunity to do what I loved most, sing, Yeah God
Such an opportunity to reach young girls in our homechurch, Yeah God
Loss of job, But God,
Such a miracle I meet my husband Bob and now 3 children: Daughterinlaw and Soninlaw, Yeah God!
Loss of job, But God,
New job, Yeah God
Loss of job, BUT GOD!
Our own company, Integrity!  Whoduthunk?  Yeah GOD!

My life is full of God Moments,  how could I not be grateful? Thanksgiving Day is a day to be thankful for family, friends, health, and jobs...
BUT GOD!

It's Just Me Val, Ciao!