Pink Sucks When It's A Slip

My mom's company is in the midst of major cutbacks. Two days ago, she finally clued me in to the fact she has been on the pink slip list at her job.

Supposedly, her immediate bosses have gone to bat for her. She's been told her name is off the list. But today is the day. She won't feel safe or relax in the least until 5.30 this afternoon. While her bosses have been fighting for her, other people have been fighting for their secretaries. Everyone is freaking out and cleaning out their desks. Waiting for that long march to HR.

In brilliant American fashion, this is how today is being handled. A tap on the shoulder. Come with me please. Fifteen minutes on the cold end of a conference table to digest the legalese of termination paperwork. To sign for a severance package you may or may not understand. To sign away your rights to protest. Tick tock. Tick tock. Then, escorted to your work station of 5, 10, 18 years you are given ten minutes to pack your things. No access to your computer, people staring over your shoulder. You are then walked out by security. You are not allowed to speak with any of your coworkers. No goodbyes. No hugs.

Is there any question as to why Americans are the envy of the world?

My mom is terrified, and I don't blame her. My dad was supposed to retire in April. The past few days have demonstrated her complete lack of mental preparation for being out of a job. I just called her desk, and at least her voice mail is still picking up.

I feel sick.