bob m,
I was in sales, commission base, myself to maintain my income I simply worked longer & smarter & found ways to help the customer save tangiable $ to maintain my level of income - sell more trucks with less GP. Went thru the recessions on 1973 (forlift market went from 130K to 36K (before imprts were counted in ITA), 1982 (import just starting to be counted in ITA) market went down to 46K, 1992 & 2001/2002.
With respect to teachers they earn their pay - the can take their pay spread over 12 month or 9 mos - most take it over 12 mos. I retired 3 years ago & I did substite teaching for 1.5 years on and off. I quite due to a rise in my blood pressure. Students today have little respect for teachers, adminstrators or anyone in authority - in my opinion - this starts with the parents and the liberalisation of of schools roles - no spanking, no go to the gym and settledisputes with boxing gloves - 16 oz pillows & head gear, etc
But like all of us we make a career choice & if you don't like the choice you can have opportunity to a make a choice.
I wont disputer your number on teh other items but teh average postal worker makes about $19/hour before benefits - I have a friend that just retired after 25 years her salary was $21.00/hour.
But I was not preaching to you - I first pointed out you misunderstood the other persons comments on the Crown pay back.
In tough times you & businesses may have to make changes to survive or even maintain. You might be successful with the Lee Iacocco (sic) approach - "Lead, follow or get out of the way" if not modify your approach.