subcontext of up in the air.

Last night I watched the new critically acclaimed Jason Reitman film, “Up in the Air.” I knew that I was going to like this movie because of the directing and acting alone. Plus all the reviews that I read told me I would. (And let me say, this is probably the only movie that I’m completely enamored by George Clooney from beginning to end. can you say jaw structure??) But, I was surprised about how much I enjoyed it and how perfectly poignant I found it to be. It effectively captured the emotions of those that are trying to survive in the cold and mean climate our economy is in. I couldn’t help but get emotional thinking about all those people across the country that are losing their jobs and are 50+. What are they to do now?

I graduated college in May at one of the worst times to possibly graduate. As I was walking across the podium to receive my much deserved and anticipated diploma, I felt like a groundhog that saw their shadow but was stuck because someone just filled my hibernation hole with dirt. I knew I was about to enter a scary world where I would have to compete with people with master’s degrees and others who actually have professional experience.

My dreams of becoming a writer have been put on hold (hence the not-for-profit blogging). My current job is working at an online advertising company that specializes in the debt settlement arena. So my job is to call these poor (literally) people and talk to them about their debt. I get hung up on, cursed at and demoralized. But, I still get a paycheck and that’s all that seems to matter at this point. Would I rather be breaking stories from the front lines in Iraq? Yes. Would I rather be writing for ANY publication that would take me? Of course. Would I rather be pulling out my own hair? Yea. But that won’t earn me any money and I don’t think I can pull off the bald look.

At this point I just need to be thankful for where I am. I can pay my bills, go to Malarky’s on Fridays and consume a few bottles of 2 Buck Chuck a week. So all in all, it’s not too shabby.