Circling the Drain

Every week, I go to work for forty hours, and at the end of the week, I have nothing left. I am a working professional with twenty-five years of experience in my industry, and my face drags across the cement every payday. My first check goes exclusively to my rent for a 475-square-foot apartment that house three people. My second check pays for my power, internet (which I need for my job), phone (from Boost Mobile) and food for a month. I don't own a car; I don't own a suit; I don't own dress shoes. We don't take vacations (my wife and I have had one holiday in eleven years of marriage).

Recently I was given an interim promotion at work. It comes with more responsibility and a hypothetical chance at more money, but by taking the position, I found myself passed by for a smaller promotion that would have come with more money. I won't have a salary review for another six months, and credit cards have taken me as far as I can go.

I know I'm not the only one struggling, but I am struggling, and I see no way out without abandoning my pride and begging for any help you can give my family. Know that I am suitably ashamed that I have to ask and that I find the entire experience of doing this soul-crushing. I appreciate your consideration.