They might not be able to work two jobs. They could have medical conditions that limit the amount of time they can work, the economy where they live could be horrible for job hunting, or they could be living on a fixed income and can't find cheaper housing. Or they could be working two jobs and the cost of living where they live could be horrible. I get that you were trying to be nice, but the "work hard and you will move up in the world" thing that people say is a slap in the face of people who are trying their best. Someone who is physically unable to work doesn't want to be told, however unintentionally it is implied, that they are lazy. Someone who can't get a second job doesn't want to hear someone imply they aren't trying hard enough. Someone who has two jobs and still struggles with living expenses doesn't want someone to throw their luck in being able to keep both jobs and go to school when they can't do so because their bosses hold their job security hostage. It's better to just say "do your best and things will hopefully change for the better." Sorry for the ramble, but i'm someone who has enough medical issues that I'll never be able to live on my own. I spent four years being insulted and bitched at by everyone but my mother when we hit a rough financial patch for not working when not only was I physically unable to, but no one would hire me because I was physically disabled. It really sucks to be told to do things that, nine times out of ten, you've already tried in an attempt to get out of financial distress.