The recession of 2009 has been detrimental to society and has put tremendous strain on the lives of Americans. The economy has been under water for a considerable amount of time; this is the worst financial state we have seen since World War II.

Beginning around December 2007, sinking economic matters have snowballed from bad to worse. The argument in play is: When will it end? Has the recession indeed begun to slow? 

Some politicians and newscasters say America is starting to come up for air in this penniless and seemingly hopeless state of being.

Around election time, most turned to the new candidates of the oval office for a reprieve from tough financial times. Obama served as a beacon of light for all who struggled to keep their houses, cars and lives in order. 

But now, as we approach the end of the year, the jobless rate is peaking at a whopping 9.7 percent, the highest it has been in more than 20 years.

These dismal facts and figures are not, however, deterring the media, which speculate the end of these troubling times to be approximately six months in the future. It is difficult to tell if these predictions are farce or if they hold some legitimacy. 

Truly, the reason I question the accuracy of politicians’ claims is because the news switches its perspective on a story with each new day, seeming only to dispel information on a “need to know” basis to the general public. 

Headlines read out as being slightly fickle, and attempting to distinguish what is truth and what is wishful thinking can be trying.

The outlook appears to be very bleak, even for those who do not have major expenses such as paying for mortgages. Ninety-four banks shut their doors thus far, and the condition of the housing market is barely showing signs of improvement. I think there is no solid or reliable way out of financial woe for those trying to thrive in the U.S.

Many news sources agree without the help of the government, people alone will not be able to sustain the economy. 

The stimulus packages that have been set in place to boost us will likely disappear as if never there. I suppose the solution out of this money crisis must unravel in due time, but it does not feel like the frustrating fiasco is changing.