American work culture has us selling our souls for minimum return. It depends on where you fall on the totem pole as to what kind of return you get for your investment. Please don’t misunderstand me, I believe that an individual should put forth effort in creating a future that suites them and also helps support the community. However, that would be an easy feat if we all started out with the same privilege, if any.
Privilege is often times so broadly used to describe financial wealth such as inheritance or ancestral privilege such as race or ethnicity. What we forget to focus on as a society is also the privilege that comes with how our brain develops, the nurturing we receive as a child, the foundation of our nutrition and health both mental and physical. All of these, when good and positive, benefit the privilege an individual has in receiving a return on their investment of time and energy. An example of this is that an individual with any ability that is not that of what we consider “normal” human ability, will be limited to the types of jobs and careers they can participate in which will inevitably, limit the amount of money they can make and weather intentionally or not, places them as a less significant contributor to the human race in support of the economy.
We have many social welfare programs that aim to lift individuals out of poverty but what society fails to realize is that poverty is comorbid. How someone feels about themselves and if their needs are being met, is the foundation of elevation in life. It’s the same for a millionaire. If he/she feels like shit about themselves and their emotional needs are not met, then the money is only a vice. I spent three months working at a shelter for those without a home. I saw families come in and out, I spoke with incredibly intelligent individuals who could change the world with their very in-tune and dynamic understanding of processes whether technological, financial or interdisciplinary. All were lacking some part of Maslow’s triangle that left them incomplete and unable to function at their best and full capacity. Its one of the saddest things I’ve seen. I would do an intake on an individual who had a successful company just a few years prior and then what I guess to be an age-related mental health issue surfaced, went unidentified and untreated medically and to cope the individual used alcohol or drugs to stay sane and alive. I would do an intake on a family of four, mom, dad and two kids. Mom and dad were just co-existing because its impossible to have a whole relationship when you don’t feel whole yourself. Everything felt like a chore for mom and dad and then pile on top of that, not being able to provide for their children, it’s a disaster that triggers a never ending cycle of triggered trauma. The need to feel safe that wasn’t met as a child, triggered. The need to feel belonging and acceptance, triggered. Fundamentaly, these are broken, people who’s souls are in jeopardy and we, as a society want to pay them as little as $7.25/hr, I honestly never saw an offer of pay over $13/hr, for them to share any morsel of whole human they have left and we expect them to elevate and contribute to society all the while.
I realize that as much as I would love to fix this for everyone I can’t, this is a village problem. Until we realize the current state of our economy, the individuals who hold the power over us and their ill intentions, we will not find value in the human experience. If a doctor spends twelve hours working and a crew member at mcdonald’s spend twelve hours working, the only difference is the product they produce. Both individuals are humans, both individuals are physically, mentally and emotionally sharing a piece of themselves with the universe, with society. Why does one persons time on this earth amount to more than another? This is the fundamental issue. Not that “if we raise minimum wage to $15/HR this job and that job will need a raise because of x,y and z.” No, the person making minimum wage is not worth less. Period. Should everyone be held accountable to have good work ethic and intentional work habits? Yes of course! But when you have to say “well I don’t get paid enough to do that!” or “that’s above my pay grade,” in the current climate you are saying “I am not worthy of that time and space.”
As we evolve and start of peel back the layers of “well we’ve always done it that way,” mentality, I believe we will be able to see a more focused and intentional climate for our future. It feels as though we are shifting from a more physical state of stress in the work environment to an emotional and mental stress. Many humans feel unfulfilled by the work they do, the gap between the rich and the poor continues to be driven wider and we have generations of people completely intolerant of other generations.
I chose my work as a caregiver because that is my gift. When I look at the ads for caregivers on indeed and someone offers $11, $12, $13/hr to literally care for someone and bring to that situation love and light, I get angry. How can you ask a human to share a part of themselves, an extension of who they are and care when they have calculated their paycheck before they even earn it, to find they are short on rent or wont have any left to buy groceries. $11/hr is too much for food assistance for one person and not enough to pay the bills. We beg of people to give everything they have while they are at work but when they go home the work they have spent their precious gift of time doing, isn’t enough.
Some say,” well then they need to better themselves through education. “Higher education currently is robbery. The fact that my grandfather, 60 years ago, was managing an aerospace division for one of the largest companies in the united states with only “hands on experience” and no education tells you that we don’t need an expensive piece of paper for every position. Many jobs can be learned and learned best by “doing” and experience. What we need, is a mass amount of people who can think for themselves and have freedom to share their passion but also put food on the table and pay their bills.
About the Creator
Caralee Core
I am a midwestern, mom of 2, wife, CNA and EMT. I have always been a creative writer but spent the majority of my life masking for the greater sum of humanity. I am imperfect. I am complicated and I am passionate.
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: US Lawmakers Move to Stop Trump’s Threatened Tariffs on European Allies
The United States is facing a potential trade storm as former President Donald Trump once again threatens tariffs—this time targeting European allies. In response, a growing number of US lawmakers are stepping up, seeking to block these threatened measures before they can disrupt international trade relationships and domestic markets. Trump, known for his aggressive trade policies during his presidency, has repeatedly criticized what he perceives as unfair trade practices by Europe. Now, his latest rhetoric suggests he may impose tariffs on European goods, raising alarms across Capitol Hill and the global trade community. For many members of Congress, this is not just about economics—it’s about diplomacy, alliances, and maintaining the stability of long-standing trade agreements. Bipartisan Concern Over Tariffs What’s notable about this pushback is the bipartisan nature of it. Lawmakers from both parties are expressing concerns about the potential impact of these tariffs. Republican senators, while traditionally aligned with Trump on issues of trade protectionism, are warning that broad tariffs could hurt American exporters and consumers. Democrats are emphasizing the diplomatic fallout and the risk of escalating trade tensions with Europe, which remains a key ally in both economic and security matters. Senator Susan Collins, a Republican from Maine, stated, “We need to protect American workers, but imposing sweeping tariffs on our European allies is not the way. It could backfire on the very industries we are trying to support.” Similarly, Democratic Representative Katherine Clark noted, “Tariffs should never be the first option. We must preserve our alliances while addressing legitimate trade concerns.” This bipartisan consensus signals the seriousness with which Congress is treating Trump’s threats. Unlike during his presidency, when Trump often faced a divided legislative branch, the current environment shows unified resistance to measures that could destabilize US-European trade relations. The Economic Risks Economists have long warned that tariffs, especially those imposed suddenly and broadly, can have ripple effects throughout the economy. Tariffs on European goods could raise prices for American consumers on everyday items ranging from wine and cheese to cars and industrial equipment. At the same time, European countries could retaliate with tariffs of their own, targeting American exports such as agricultural products, technology, and aerospace goods. Analysts also highlight the potential for long-term damage. Trade tensions can discourage investment, slow supply chains, and increase uncertainty for businesses that rely on global partnerships. For US companies already navigating post-pandemic recovery and supply chain disruptions, additional tariffs could be a significant burden. A report from the Peterson Institute for International Economics suggests that even targeted tariffs on a few European goods could reduce US GDP growth by up to 0.5% over the next year. While this may sound modest, in an already uncertain economic environment, such declines could affect jobs, wages, and consumer spending. Diplomatic Fallout Beyond the economic consequences, the diplomatic implications of these threatened tariffs are substantial. Europe has traditionally been a close ally of the United States in international affairs, from NATO cooperation to climate agreements. Imposing tariffs risks straining these relationships at a time when global cooperation is critical on issues such as security, energy, and economic stability. European leaders have already expressed concern. Officials in Brussels have warned that any unilateral tariffs could lead to retaliatory measures and may undermine ongoing trade negotiations. While Trump’s statements have been framed as protecting American interests, allies perceive them as a threat to the stability and fairness of international trade norms. Lawmakers’ Proposed Solutions In response, Congress is exploring several avenues to block or limit the impact of any new tariffs. Some lawmakers are drafting legislation that would require a congressional vote before the executive branch can impose such trade measures, effectively curbing unilateral authority. Others are pushing for closer oversight and transparency, ensuring that any proposed tariffs undergo thorough economic and diplomatic analysis. Representative Richard Neal, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee, emphasized the need for checks and balances. “Congress has a role in protecting not just American jobs, but also the integrity of our alliances. We will not sit idle while threats of tariffs jeopardize our economic and diplomatic relationships.” These proposals reflect a growing recognition that trade policy cannot exist in a vacuum. Economic decisions are intertwined with international relations, and lawmakers appear determined to prevent impulsive actions that could have far-reaching consequences. Public Reaction Public reaction has been mixed, with some Americans supporting strong trade measures to protect domestic industries, while others worry about higher prices and disrupted supply chains. Business groups, particularly in sectors reliant on European imports or exports, have been vocal in opposing new tariffs. The US Chamber of Commerce issued a statement urging lawmakers to block any measures that could escalate trade tensions unnecessarily. “American businesses thrive on predictable trade relationships. Tariffs create uncertainty, hurt consumers, and may lead to retaliatory measures from our allies.” Consumer advocacy groups echo this concern, warning that tariffs are essentially a tax on everyday goods. For families already grappling with inflation, even modest tariff increases could hit household budgets hard. Looking Ahead While Trump’s threats have sparked immediate concern, the final outcome remains uncertain. Lawmakers are moving quickly to draft legislation and coordinate with European counterparts to prevent unilateral action. Analysts suggest that diplomatic engagement combined with congressional oversight could significantly reduce the likelihood of new tariffs being implemented. The episode underscores a broader lesson about US trade policy: cooperation and negotiation remain essential, even in an era of political polarization. Tariffs may be a powerful tool in theory, but in practice, they carry risks that can ripple across the economy, international relations, and domestic politics. As Congress continues to act, one thing is clear: any attempt to impose tariffs on European allies will not go uncontested. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle appear ready to defend economic stability and diplomatic relationships, sending a message that the US is committed to protecting its interests without alienating long-standing partners. In a world where trade disputes can quickly become geopolitical flashpoints, the coming weeks will be crucial. How the US navigates these threats may set the tone for its economic and diplomatic relationships for years to come.
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