New Trend: Layoffs are Fun; Have a Pink Slip Party

Because we've got to accentuate the positive in every situation, the Globe is out with a new article on how to love being laid off. Not working is great because you can spend time with your kids, find new hobbies, and just plain hang out. How cool!

But trend pieces about the wonders of unemployment ignore the looming problems of bills, skills, and the future. Sure, the present economic situation means that there's less stigma attached to being unemployed: people are losing their jobs left and right. But it also means that folks will have a harder time finding new employment, meaning that bills still threaten, especially for families. And when Globe reporters are taking all the second jobs, it gets even harder for people who really need work.

Sometimes, a layoff can be a life-changer, driving you in a new direction from your tired old path. That doesn't mean getting laid off is a good thing most of the time, and it's both irresponsible and insensitive to spin it that way. And when you're simultaneously writing about dogs with jobs, it's even more insulting to the people who don't have them.

So what's next in economic trend pieces: "women do" get fired, too? Or maybe the recession is good for women? We'll wait and see what the Globe has up its privileged sleeve.