Have you played the game “
Spent”? Created by
Urban Ministries of Durham, the game simulates the experience of living paycheck-to-paycheck. Players start out with $1000 and news that you have just lost your job. Your first task is to find a new job, but each option comes with its own set of challenges (and like in the real world, you may not even get the job). From there, you have to make tough decisions to ensure that your family does not run out of money before the end of the month. I’ve played a couple of times, and it does give a real sense of what obstacles those who are less fortunate face on a daily basis and the stress caused by these challenges.
On my best attempt I ended the month with $112 left, but to do that I had to miss my grandfather’s funeral, stop my child from going on a field trip, purchase cheap and unhealthy food like ramen, and–as you can see in the pic—rent is due the next day so I obviously wouldn’t have the money to last another month!
Think you can survive until the end of the month? Give it a shot and let me know how you do in the comments!
That game was a helluva lot depressing, but REAL. :( It's the reason why I get so upset when people make those one-sides statements about getting a job, being on welfare, etc. Not everyone has a straightforward chance, and a LOT of things come into play--especially emotions.
ReplyDeleteI have been blessed so far that my father had a good job and has even put up with my craziness thus far. But I'm halfway in this ring now--low paying job, getting education, trying for something better. It's frustrating when your friends and associates have "it", and you're crawling on the floor trying to start at the first level.
Interesting game... No need to try it, I live it day to day! I haven't worked in 2 years, and struggle to raise my kids and give them the things they need! I allow nobody to tell me to "just go out there and get a job" because nowadays it's easier said than done. My parents are in no position to help. It's all up to me to make it happen for us. I thank God I am still surviving!
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