Another day, no dollars

The fun has drained out of the career path I have chosen. They say that "Money can't buy happiness" but I think they missed something... the absence of money compiled with the presence of bills and the needs of children are sheer misery.

As a computer programmer that was active during the beautiful "dot-com" years, watching developer salaries steadily fall weighs heavy in my chest. I have a home. I have a family. I was a good provider. I was a hard worker who enjoyed my many jobs. The jobs are still quite abundant but the pay has left me with a hollow empty feeling.

I now know that, without the good pay, programming is dull, repetitive and simply not worth it. Companies no longer let you "play" which is really the only way to keep your skills sharp. "Every minute counts!" They also pit you against the others (read: India). "Why should I pay you to sit in a cube when I can get three Indians for the same price?" At one time, "Skill" was the answer. The Indians have that now.

I feel lost. I am nearing the grand old age of forty and have no other skills. They tell me to go to school. My response: pay for my children, car payment, mortgage, food and electricity and I'll go to any school you want. It's not easy to change when a family depends on you. Mistakes at this stage hurt far more than myself.

So hear I sit. I will attempt the American dream. I am trying to start a business.

Wish me luck, disdain or indifference.