An American Tragedy—"The Great Recession":

America’s economy continues to idle in recession mode while millions of unemployed breathe a sigh of relief as Congress finally passed a vote (59 – 39) approving another extension of jobless benefits. Parliamentary roadblocks from the partisan minority led to months of delays. President Obama stated, “Americans who are working day and night to get back on their feet and support their families in these tough economic times deserve more than obstruction and partisan game-playing.” Once again, well-spoken words provide a glimmer of hope for those in need of some form of delayed compassion. Perhaps what are truly missing in all this economic chaos and partisan politics are bits and pieces of poetic justice. After all, once the $34 billion six-month extension has been fully funded to aid the 2.5 million people who have been out of work for six months or more, Congress will have to figure out what to do with the other forgotten group: the millions left behind who are still unemployed with no benefits and the unknown numbers of underemployed who have not been able to cover basic living expenses since early 2007.

Having felt and still feeling the wrath of this Great Recession myself, I find it difficult to argue against some type of government aid for those of us in need. Most unemployed and underemployed people in America are not expecting a welfare handout from the government (taxpayers). A job that pays a livable wage and reasonable benefits is all we seek. Is that too much to expect by the citizens of a country so rich and prosperous as the United States? How will it be possible to create jobs and strengthen the economy if some of our leaders in Washington oppose incentives to do so? If the facts, data, and outrage from Wall Street’s behavior have not gotten through to our leaders, then maybe it is time to send a message from Main Street to Washington by way of poetry. This book is dedicated to the millions of Americans who have lost their jobs, homes, life savings, benefits, families, and friends since the Great Recession began. I live your pain every day. Please do not forget that your struggles and sufferings are also mine. We walk this road together in hopes of building a stronger America today and tomorrow.