It's never been my intention to not figure out a way to refund you and make you whole here at some point and occb2 as well. I am still trying to find another full time job with zero success. It's not that I haven't wanted to send something even if it's just a small bit at a time. It's literally been there's been nothing there in the bank to send. I've managed just barely to keep the roof over our head and the power on so far.
Allow me to add some grist to the mill.
2008-2010 was one of the worst periods of my life. I was working in oil and gas at the time and the price of oil had bottomed out. Combined with the fact that I was neck deep in multiple mortgages for a total of 7 figures in the real estate market, I was leveraged to the teats to say the least...and we all know how that market turned out as well.
I lost my very nice 6 figure job. I sold everything but my ass. I sold my nice house and moved into an extended stay hotel. I was living off of $1800 USD a month...after bills were paid, I had about 300 left to eat off of and find a job with. The way bills and unemployment worked out one period, I had $20 dollars to eat on for two weeks. Ramen noodles, PB&J and tuna fish sandwiches, and dollar store Debbie Cakes was all I ate for two weeks. My hardest decision for lunch or dinner was what flavor noodles or jelly I was going to have.
Many members here helped me out, some the likes of which I could never repay...nor would they accept it. Seems because I helped this board out once or twice, that warranted helping me in my time of need. Even if it didn't, that doesn't mean there aren't folks here who wouldn't help you in *your* time of need. But even in my most darkest days, when I had to look up to see rock bottom, NEVER ONCE DID I EVER CONSIDER FUCKING ANYONE OVER. EVER. Oh trust me, I could have, and in ways that would have rocked this place to the core...but then what?
I get the fact you're down and out, and that you're in dire straits. I've been there...many of us here have. But save me the woe is me bullshit because it ain't gonna fly with me or others. You could have asked for help and you didn't.
You need to do something. If you're still down and out, then you need to do something - a good faith gesture - to give those who've been wronged a sign that you intend to make good. But you need to be completely honest in everything with no bullshit excuses. I don't know what D4M or The Boss will accept as a good faith gesture, and I don't know what a viable path forward looks like, but I'm sure one can be laid out...provided you're 100% honest with them, us, and most importantly yourself. Then and only then will salvation begin.
In closing, I will leave you with this: The Lord helps those who help themselves. Perhaps now is a very good time for another "Come To Jesus" meeting with yourself, and to the honorable members of this community. If I can help, I will do what I can. Your move, Chief.
Bill - BOD