Dear Cr-Abby from Depressed in Utah

DEAR CR-ABBY:
Because of the downturn in the economy, I had to close my business. Let me tell you this -- if anyone wants to know who their real friends are, here's how: Own your own business.
Not one friend or family member has mentioned my business loss, much less offered condolences -- and they all know. People have told my husband, who was not part of the business, that they feel sorry for me, but no one will say anything to me about it. I feel like it's the elephant in the room at gatherings when no one mentions it.
Am I wrong to feel hurt by this? I don't know what to do about it. I'm amazed at everyone's rudeness and total self-absorption. Have we become a society that talks to one another only when the news is good, but is too busy to tell people they are sorry for their loss?
-- DEPRESSED IN UTAH

Dear Johnny Smith Apple Cart Pusher,

It's very likely that many of your friends don't know how to respond or approach the subject with you. Perhaps if you simply open the door to the conversation you would see a better side of your friends.

Also, you should be networking with friends, family and others to land your next gig. The best cure for your injury (economically and emotionally) is getting your hands and brains working on something else. Promoting yourself and your ideas is your new job.

Idle hands make for the devils workshop.

Cr-Abby

PS; Yes there are fair weather friends and maybe you have a few of those in your circle...voting them off the island is one approach, getting yourself off the island is the better path.