Beyond the Struggle: A Message for the Unemployed

I want to mention that I have been holding onto this blog for a month now, not because I was hesitant, but because I never thought I would publish it. However, motivation strikes unexpectedly. Typically, I begin with a quote when writing something serious, but today, this is more of a letter. Hopefully, it resonates with someone.

Dear Unemployed individuals, how are you? How are things going? How is your state of mind? I wanted to connect with you a bit. I understand you might be at home overthinking, catching up on a series, taking an online course, sitting under a tree in town after submitting your CV at various places, or back in the rural area farming, or even waiting at a reception for an interview. I don't have much to say, but I want you to know that you are not alone, and things will improve, I believe.

A little background story - when I was about to graduate, I landed a job, not an internship, but a full-time job. You can imagine my excitement. I was thrilled, especially because the job came with perks like a tea break at ten and a hearty lunch. Since I was living at home and my parents were supporting me, I had my full salary to myself. I was young and just starting, so being paid that amount with minimal experience seemed unjustified.

I became too comfortable in that job, enjoying my time there immensely. I only applied for roles that I felt suited me. I wasn't in a rush; I was learning and had made wonderful friends. These friends made the experience worthwhile, those quick friendships that make your day dull when they are absent. Shoutout to them because they made it all memorable.

Fast forward to the day, we were informed to go home due to financial constraints at the workplace. You can probably guess the type of organization I was working for and if you cannot too bad, I do not have the liberty to mention the place. I had high hopes for myself, being well-educated with the necessary qualifications. I had set a deadline to secure another job by the following May, let me laugh because that deadline came and went, leaving me pondering where things went awry.

Initially, I didn't feel the impact of losing the job as I had savings to sustain me for a few months. However, as time passed, financial calculations became daunting. The mathematics in my head got a little bit too hard all I could see were Venn diagrams, I found myself contemplating what expenses to cut, what to sell, or even considering illegal business. I tend to be an overthinker, with anxiety gnawing at me like termites on wood. I always seek to predict the future, unable to go with the flow. I'm not sure of the lesson I'm conveying, but I want you to know that we've all been through similar struggles.

You've exhausted all avenues to secure a job, sending numerous CVs to anyone who might offer an opportunity. Some individuals, whether relatives or acquaintances, might request your CV, possibly with genuine intentions or just to appease you. It's essential not to hold it against them if you're still unemployed. Even others in similar situations have connections. Some may jest with you because rejecting you outright is difficult, maybe they don't wish to assist, secretly content that things aren't working out in your favor.

There comes a time when you're willing to undertake any job, even those you swore never to do. You've prayed fervently, to no avail. You may have contemplated unethical means or felt worthless enough to consider drastic measures. Admit it, we've all been there at some point. Losing friends due to financial constraints can be disheartening, leaving you wondering about your financial future. You opt to stay home silently, rather than scream bloody murder at them, choosing to mind your own business.

To be clear, it’s not your fault. Right now, the situation in our country is tough—five out of ten people in a group are unemployed. Many companies are laying off workers because they simply don't know how they’ll afford to keep paying with the rising cost of living, increasing taxes, and various challenges such as the looming Adani issue and the pressure from Sha. Add the housing levy and other financial burdens to the mix, and it’s no wonder organizations and employers are choosing to downsize instead of hiring new staff or increasing salaries."

Be patient; I can't predict when things will turn around for you, but I assure you they will. Isaiah 60:22" I appreciate the entire verse because it says, 'Even your smallest and humblest family will grow into a powerful nation. When the time comes, I will make it happen swiftly. I am the Lord.' While I like this full version, I know we often tend to focus only on the part that says, 'When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen. This verse resonates with me, it emphasizes that even the smallest family can flourish when the time is right. Trust in divine timing, seek to learn during this waiting period and maintain a prayerful attitude. Avoid compromising your values for short-term gains. I am saying Do not sell your soul to the highest bidder even when you are tempted, fraud will get you money and everything but at a hefty cost.

"Hold on to your friends—the ones who have stood by you through it all. Appreciate them and never forget the support they’ve given you. Hug your parents because, trust me, they’re going through the struggles with you, even if they don’t always show it. Express gratitude to them, and reciprocate their kindness when you secure a job. On days when it feels like you can’t move forward, take a moment—scream if you need to, go for a walk, dance to the beat of your favorite song, or talk to someone you trust. Remember how far you’ve come—you’re destined for greatness. ITAIVANA, RELAX."

To those employed, if you come across opportunities, remember your unemployed friends; you might be their answered prayer. Luke 8:16 illustrates the importance of sharing opportunities to benefit others. The verse says, 'No one lights a lamp and hides it under a bowl or puts it under a bed. Instead, it's placed on a stand so that everyone who enters can see the light.' So, be that light—share opportunities and let your light shine for others as they come into your life." Share every opportunity that comes your way with them.

To the friends of the unemployed, pray for your friends, and God will double your blessings. When Job lost everything, he prayed for his friends, and God restored him with twice as much as before. As Job 42:10 says, 'After Job prayed for his three friends, the LORD made him prosperous again and gave him twice as much as he had before.' Perhaps your blessing is intertwined with theirs.

"Oh, and don’t forget that idea you’ve been thinking about—whether it’s starting a business, taking certification classes, volunteering at children's homes, or anywhere else that needs help—go for it. It might just be the key to unlocking greater opportunities. JITUME ITAJIPA.

Remember, what you take for granted in your daily life might be someone else’s answered prayer, so thank God for it. You are destined to shine—after all, even King David started as a shepherd."

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