No worries.. For sure it doesn’t make any sense, and it is completely my own doing why I’m in this mess.

I appreciate you listening and sharing all the same. Life is confusing.

All the best to you.

I really struggle with work and value.

I have 12 employees. They all make $20-30 an hour. It’s still not enough to live and prosper on. The only reason they get by is because they have family and friends and significant others to pool resources.

I can’t pay them more, and I don’t have a plan for their upward mobility. It’s gutting because I want them to have assurance that they can grow old and survive. My salary (when I was paying myself) from the business was pretty much in line theirs, even though my job less physically demanding and taxing.

It didn’t feel right.. Particularly through the last few years.

I don’t know what I’m ‘worth’, and through that job and my two new ones, I simply don’t earn enough to make it on my own.

Is it normal to arrive at 50 years old and have roommates and failing health and no considerable retirement? I mean well, work hard, and do my best for people… But the results are what count, and I can’t produce any more.

I don’t know how to advance from here. If this what I’m paid, this is what I’m worth I suppose. But it’s not enough to really live.

The people and trust. Here people know who I am; what value I offer; and what it’s like without me.

Sure I could start over in another market, but then I am nobody. A stranger with some testimonials from another state and maybe an obscure reputation.

It’s took years to build the favor I have here. There is no replacing it.

I know you’re right, but I don’t want to give up. I started my company as a sole proprietorship 11 years ago. I have been working towards starting a life here for a long time.

I want to prove I’m good enough to make it here, despite whatever hardships.

For sure. But I know people make it work through much more adversity.

I don’t understand what the difference is between me and anyone else.

I don’t know if healthcare and teeth and retirement are luxuries or not.

Thank you. Take care!

Thanks, but unfortunately I wouldn’t be eligible.

This month 1k would have been almost 50% of my wages. Unfortunately it’s not steady.

I assure you I’m looking. Been looking since September. Viewed several places. Lots of scams, lots of dilapidated/trashed rooms, or otherwise unsuitable arrangements.

I’ve used every service and website I can find. I know plenty of people make it work and that I’m not special… I’m simply not having any luck.

Thank you so much for your concern. It’s comforting knowing people are looking out for me.

I promise I’ll pay it forward.

Yup. Since September. Been using all the services I can find.

Occasionally something pops up, but I haven’t had any luck yet.

I know it. I just got back from visiting with family all over the country.

The price is worth whatever it takes.

The tap water actually tastes good. There’s hardly any crime or murders. People here are genuinely caring, and they take hard work and achievements seriously.

I’ve lived in several areas of the country, and I don’t want to go back.

I’m not trying to live on Beacon Hill or in Back Bay, or even in Boston proper for that matter. MA is my home.

What do you want to know?

I made $2,400 this month. $1,000 in rent is pushing the ratio. I also need to go the doctor, the dentist, and possibly even save for retirement.

I’m absolutely responsible for my circumstances, but I’m just regular person like everyone else. I want a family, a career, health and happiness.

I don’t know what I can do differently to keep striving towards those goals.

I’m as well adjusted to what’s going on in society as anyone else.

I’m trying I promise.

I can’t imagine how hard other people have it.

If I had other options I’d choose them. I pick up litter for fun.

I’m not an asshole, I just don’t earn enough money.

I own a business, have a night time job, and have professional licensure in a niche trade.

Three sources of income. It just only amounts to ~40-60k.

I appreciate the insight.

I won’t idle the vehicle unless it’s really bad. I’ve lived here for 12 years–I have the correct clothing.

Hey thank you very much for the info.

Trespassing; loitering.

Or otherwise being perceived as someone who must be in the wrong.

“Why would you be in this situation? Where is your family and friends?”

For sure. I’ve been looking since September though and just striking out. I have to keep a stupid vehicle for work, and I’m trying avoid stairs with my fucked up legs.

My parameters are messing me all up.

The church of low prices.

That’s me. I saw a similar post recently on the housing subreddit.

I understand. I have the right sleeping bag, so it shouldn’t be necessary to constantly run the engine.

And obviously my goal is to not disturb anyone.

Thanks for the info though. Getting a visit from the police is exactly what I’m trying to avoid.

Unfortunately I don’t have that much income. My budget is realistically 500-1000 per month.

Walmarts are indeed on my circuit of sleeping places. But I really want to avoid the uncertainty of getting in trouble legally.

Any criminal offense could put my career in jeopardy.

If anyone knows of a church or other organization that would permit someone to sleep in their parking lot (in a vehicle), I’d greatly appreciate the info. Would only be for a few weeks at most.

Obviously I wouldn’t litter, make a mess, or otherwise attract attention besides running the engine periodically.

I know this sounds ridiculous but I really don’t want get in trouble with the law. I’m actively looking for places, but just haven’t had any luck.

I’m gainfully employed; no substance abuse or mental issues; and can provide references and information behind my predicament.