ETHNICALLY SPEAKING by Larry Meeks on Creators.com

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Ethnically Speaking, February 7

Dear Larry: I am a minority and used to work for a small company of 19 employees. There was a major cutback because of the downturn in the economy.

The company is a major parts supplier for the construction industry. Almost overnight, the company's business declined by 75 percent. In order for it to survive, it was forced to cut inventory to the bone and go through major layoffs. Twelve of the 19 employees were given their walking papers.

What is odd about the layoffs is all of the minorities were included. The company had five minorities, and now none is left.

I can't honestly say we were let go because of our race, but I am wondering why all the minorities were given the ax. I have heard it said that we are the last hired and the first fired. I am interested in your opinion.

Now that I am looking for a job, I would like your thoughts on what someone in my shoes should do to get back in the labor market.

If I could wave a magic wand, my dream job would be to become a writer. — F.S.

Dear F.S.: Without knowing any facts about how each employee was selected to be laid off, it is impossible to determine whether the cutbacks were race-related. Many companies use seniority as the determining factor, but I find that most companies try to keep the employees who are the most productive. The notable exceptions are employees who are related to the boss.

I am one of those optimistic people who believe "when lemons are thrown at you, make lemonade." Using myself as an example, I was a high-level government employee when I was given my walking papers at the age of 50.

I went through a few weeks of feeling sorry for myself and then decided that remorse was a nonproductive use of my emotions.

I went back to school and obtained my second master's degree, in counseling psychology. It was during that period that I decided to become a columnist.

Because I had time on my hands, I began to have fun making metal sculptures. To my great surprise, my work became popular. I now have people who collect my creations, and I also have numerous large public artworks.

This is not my entire repertoire, but these two instances would not have happened if I did not experience a layoff. Without a doubt, my job loss was the best thing that ever happened to me, because I never would have taken the chance if I'd remained on the job.

The following are my suggestions:

First, give yourself a limited amount of time to grieve for the loss of your job. I suggest no more than two weeks. Tell yourself you will feel sorry for yourself for that amount of time and then will pick up the pieces.

Second, ask yourself, "If I knew I would not fail, what would I do?" Make a list of at least three things.

Third, prepare a plan. Your plan should include a timetable, financial resources, advisers and location limitations.

Fourth, have gusto. Your attitude is the main thing that determines whether you become a success. I am convinced that enthusiasm is contagious. If you believe in yourself, others will believe. Do not live in the past. It is never too late to make a major change in your life.

This economic downturn could be the best thing that ever happened to you. It all depends upon you.

To find out more about Larry G. Meeks and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate Web page at www.creators.com.