[Rank]

Could you explain what the term "piker" means? ... thats a new one for me! LOL

I have been without work myself for about 6 months ... welp, not exactly out of work because periodically I find myself doing work I would have never considered in the past. One half a day here and there changing sprinkler heads, painting a vacant apartment even changing light bulbs. LOL All for pretty much minimum wage.

Being self-employed (Building Contractor, New Homes/Remodel) I have no unemployment check and any money I earn alittle goes to Uncle Sam so doing these sparatic jobs just dont seem to get me anywhere.

I have found that I would rather work for free than do the mienial jobs that keep me in a state of depression. I have provided free labor to help build a Little League concession stand, did some extensive remodeling at the senior center at cost and few other "gratis" jobs.

I find that this approach makes me feel good about my contribution and keeps my spirits up till the floodgates of work finally open again and I am confident they will. I base this belief on my experiences of these economic downturns of the past. It also keeps me in the working network and just possibly on of the people that I come into contact with might need, or know someone that does need my talent.

Also, its important to keep your creditors "in the loop" so you dont have that hanging in the back of your mind.

It takes time and patience but we always seem to survive these situations.
Good luck on whatever you decide to do.