... If you knew that, why'd you say it so reductively in the first place?

Because my post was about the cheap use of incorrect words to reinforce a belief system that is imposed upon us through the insidious use of deflective language... not about the intricacies of the modern day job search dance.

A lot of these people are working to pay off their debt...

True, but again, you are having a different discussion than I am. This began with the idea that someone can just magically "create jobs", which is completely backwards. A need occurs, and then you find people to fill that need. Not the other way around. You don't "create jobs" you "create need" and then the jobs come along to fill the need.

Your personal story of working multiple jobs, and living with the parents to pay off debt, is a common one today. And the ultimate end result of our "caste system" of jobs. People don't go into the trades because it is seen as less of a job than a desk job, or software development, or whatever.

But the reality is actually flipped. The tradespeople I know own their home, work reasonable hours, and have time and money for pursuits (like music) outside of their day jobs.

Very few of the programmers I know have that kind of work/life balance.

In short, it takes ALL kinds... not just degree-job kinds.

I bet your roller derby friend, happy as she may be, probably doesn't make that much money either - even as a construction worker.

$40k/year is about double a secretary's salary. Enough to live comfortably. She's got a big ole Harley, a house, a bulldog, a boyfriend, and is comfortable enough.

Is that enough? Is all of life just paying off incurred debt then dying?

For me? I do excellent work for the company, bring in good value, get a good salary and benefits in return, and don't take work home with me. I have no debt (well, I do have a car payment and a credit card that I keep just to maintain my credit rating), and I'm saving some money.

All in all, it's a pretty good deal, as far as I'm concerned.

And when I need "more" I pick up a new marketing client, or pick up one of my unfinished books or screenplays and do some creative work.