posted August 08, 2005 09:24 PM              

The contract is for one year. The catch is, he can't set foot on US soil the entire year, or they can tax the crap out of him.

Oy! We are both so torn. This job could secure our future, if we are wise about it.

He wants me to give my blessing or put my foot down... he wants me to call it. He could really go either way.

I'm not one for making decisions, really. I could sit on this one for years.

posted August 08, 2005 10:29 PM              

He's a tech. He would be living in the International Zone (I don't really know what that is), maintaining their networks.

We've known several other guys that have gone over there. Two of them will be leaving soon to go back for another year.

posted August 08, 2005 11:32 PM              

*****
Green Zone

The International Zone (formerly known as the Green Zone) is the heavily guarded area of closed-off streets in central Baghdad where US occupation authorities live and work. The Green Zone in the central city includes the main palaces of former President Saddam Hussein. The area houses the civilian ruling authority run by the Americans and British and the offices of major US consulting companies.

The precise boundries of the "Green Zone" are difficult to determine, and indeed may change with time. The core of the Green Zone appears to be the presidential complex of Saddam Hussein.

The International Zone (formerly known as the Green Zone) is the heavily guarded diplomatic/government corner of central Baghdad that houses Iraqi citizens, Coalition partners, and U.S. forces. It is commonly referred to as the "Ultimate Gated Community" due to the numerous armed checkpoints, coils of razor wire, chain link fences, and the fact it is surrounded by "T-Walls" (reinforced and blast-proof concrete slabs). http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/iraq/baghdad-green-zone.htm

posted August 09, 2005 10:34 AM              

Now, would he have to pay foreign tax on this money or not? Factor that into calculating how much his actual return would be. (haha sorry, that's my finance degree kicking in.)

Whatever you decide, I don't think the weight of this decision should rest entirely on your shoulders. Something this momentous should be decided collaboratively by the both of you.

posted August 09, 2005 01:48 PM              

... and thank you, Petron for the IZ info.

Boy oh boy... when it rains it pours.
So much going on all at once.

There is this opportunity, Nana has recently been diagnosed with Congestive Heart Disease, I'm starting this business, I just quit my job last night... *deep breath*

I really need to take some of that infamous Libran down-time so I can put all of my energy into thought.

Unfortunately, there is not time for laziness. I have too much going on. I'll just have to figure out how to be physical and thoughtful all at the same time.

posted August 09, 2005 02:18 PM              

You'll figure it out and it will all work out beautifully, just you wait and see.

Here is some healing reiki light your Nana's way (and also your way, for the new business and this important decision).

posted August 09, 2005 03:07 PM              

As I read your post, the main thing going through my mind was that it should be a joint decision. I totally agree what the advice the others have given here, it shouldn't rest completly on your shoulders. God pray that nothing should happen to him, but in the case it did... Well, you don't want to feel guilty about what if i had told him no in addition to the horrible sense of loss.

Good point someone made about your feelings as a couple in regards to the war. To take such a risk only for the money, isn't as comforting as if one truly believes in sacrificing for the cause should something go wrong.

posted August 12, 2005 11:31 AM              

If we were smart, it could turn into A LOT more... and last a lifetime (or more). I'm thinking of financial freedom through investment.

The only reason to consider this situation IS the money.

The only reason a $50-$60/k per year job would pay such an obscene amount for the contract is the danger level involved.

I can't see any reason to do it besides money.

His job would have nothing to do with helping out Iraqis. He would be there to back up the US government's inatranet over there. He would be maintaining networks.

This has never been a question of helping out the Iraqis.

posted August 12, 2005 12:43 PM            

In his case, he needs the money- he is in financial ruin because if his spending- but had that not been the case I believe we would have opted for the security position.

Everything happens for a reason. His re-enlistment and decision not to go into the real world has led us to part ways, but it was necessary (how very transiting Pluto on my Sun eh?)

I am not saying that you will have the same problems at all. I would advise though that you take everything into considersation, especially the stress of your Nana's recent diagnosis. Allow the realization of mortality and our short time here on Earth to let you know what is important and what direction you would like to take.

With your new business you will be extremely busy, can you emotionally afford to be apart from your hubby for so long? If your network of loved ones is strong, then you should be just fine. Think of where you will invest your money (We were going to pay off his debt, put money towards a house and use the rest to open his kennels).

When I meditated on where I saw our lives going, I didn't see the us on the same path- but again, that was my situation. Take a few moments, (it doesn't mean you are being lazy) and just let your mind go to where it feels your path is taking you, where you belong and what you feel in your heart will be best for the family.

Lots of love to you!!!!