Lexington, Nebraska - Setting for Another Kind of "Nomadland?"

 It was much like a smallish community like Lexington, Nebraska in which a plant shut down. Without work, middle-aged Fern decides to pull up the remaining roots she has (her husband had already died) and take off for another shot at life. It was in a run-down van. That vehicle hasn't been retrofitted for residential use but Fern makes do. That's the plot line of hit film "Nomadland."

The desperation it captures could also be the dominant story for those in Lexington who will no longer be employed by Tyson Foods. The meatpacker is shutting down the plant, leaving 3,2000 without a paycheck from working.

The Wall Street Journal tells the business side of Tyson's decision. The operation is simply no longer profitable.

The human side of what will happen in this town of 11,000 could generate Fern-like resilience. 

On the road, for example, the fictional Fern encounters the real-life Bob Wells. After suffering his own dark episodes of financial ruin from divorce and the suicide of his son, Wells has evolved into the patron saint of those in need of survival. He teaches them the skills needed for that. Also he builds a sense of community among the economically displaced.

Eventually Fern puts together a new self. That could be the only option for many in Lexington. The plant closing, of course, will have ripple effects on other businesses and institutions such as schools. The odds are there will be plenty of other layoffs.

During the holiday season, which can function as a platform for hope, I recommend the people of Lexington view "Nomadland." Then gather to discuss how Fern got from where she was to a woman she probably never expected to be.

Meanwhile, we all need a Bob Wells. 

My miracle man took the form of the chair of an elite law firm - Brad Karp of Paul, Weiss. The sector in which I had operated a boutique for decades was collapsing. He paid attention to my work during the "final days." He even sent some assignments my way. 

Eventually, I found my way to a workshop in which I enhanced a skill I had used now and then. Sooner than I thought I was opening a new kind of boutique. The meme of this business is: Don't give up before the miracle.

I wish resilience for the people of Lexington, Nebraska.

Success is a mental game. Failure comes from being done in by the “committee” in your head.

Together, we reprogram your thinking. Then we change your story.

Intuitive Coaching. Special expertise with transitions, reskilling and aging. Psychic/tarot readings, upon request. Complimentary consultation with Jane Genova (Text 203-468-8579, janegenova374@gmail.com). Yes, test out the chemistry. Zero risk.

Don’t give up before the miracle.