> Having been "between jobs" on far too many occasions in the
> recent past has gotten me to wonder about things such as my
> presentation, my possible lack of concentration, job neglect, sudden
> change of personality ... or even bad breath! Following an intensive
> investigation, I can happily report that it's neither of the above.
> Quite to the contrary, my desire to teach has done nothing but
> increase over my 13+ years of participation in the ESL industry.
> Therefore, these temporary periods of inactivity seem attributable to
> my getting older (I am now 67). Yes, I am well aware of the fact that
> many of my fellow-veterans of teaching are gainfully employed, in
> many cases on jobs which they have managed to hold onto for many
> years. But, what I have learned from many other colleagues is that,
> during these times, it has been more and more difficult to get placed
> in new situations... particularly here in the USA. Ergo, many of us
> have had no other choice but to consider positions in Asia -- mainly
> in the People's Republic of China, where age and variety of
> experience are regarded as nothing less than valuable to any ESL
> operation. I have absolutely nothing against teaching abroad --
> having already lived and worked in Japan and Brazil -- but, as one
> grows older, he/she, as a senior citizen, has an increasing need for
> medical coverage, prescribed medications, etc. which are next to
> impossible to obtain in places such as the PRC. But even if it were
> possible, the cost of such "luxuries" would be much too
> inflated to be satisfied by a teacher's average monthly wage of
> $450-600. Therefore, the alternative of most "senior"
> instructors is to stay here in the USA to face the growing
> uncertainty of employment. One can only reach the conclusion that the
> powers that be in the US language business are more than somewhat
> apathetic in facing this problem, thereby making the ESL industry in
> the United States appear as nothing less than a young person's
> pursuit! Now, I don't wish to appear paranoid in my observation, but
> idly sitting here has created some mighty strange suspicions. In any
> event, I'd like to know if any of you out there have had the same
> feelings. In the interim, thanks for your attention.

Bill Jacot, been teaching English in Mexico for 3 years and enjoy it alot. Just wanted you to know that at 56 years of age I have the same concerns about the rising cost of health care as you. In my place of employment I am fully insured and my medical expense are 100% covered as long as I receive treatment at a public hospital. Prescription medicine is dirt cheap compared to the costs in the USA. Maybe you want to consdier teaching in Mexico. If so, drop me a line; billjacot@yahoo.com