We are returning to an era when the employer wants to convey family commitment to his employees. While this seems like a noble idea, my mind wanders into the days of the coal mining towns.

Small and medium sized businesses rely heavily on the contributions of their employees. Turnover in the staff can lead to great deals of confusion and, of course, overtime. The owners and managers must take an interest in the lives of their reliable staff members. This is a truth.

This kind of attitude can be stifling to the person who prefers to keep personal life and work separate. I prefer to go to work and go home and live my life. The familial outlook of the manager can cause disturbance to my balance. And my desire for privacy can frustrate my boss.

The question then becomes, 'would a person like me be more comfortable working in a corporate environment?' Probably, I would. Yet I fear all level of manager has been taught that this is the way to run their part of the company. Also, finding a job is not easy for someone my age.

And, I am somewhat frightened at the thought of owing my boss....Saint Peter, Don't you call me cause I can't go...I owe my soul to the company store!