How's December for ya? Maybe the entire industry changed in the 1.5 months I've been out. Based on what I've read though, I doubt it.

I understand all too well the Golden Handcuffs. Some guys get bogged down with a family, a house, cars, etc, etc, to the point where they are unwilling to move on. It's sad really, seeing some guys relegate themselves to the regional world simply because they are "comfortable." I understand the fear though, it's tough to move on and start over, especially in these uncertain times where a furlough could be just around the corner for anyone in the bottom 10-15% (my guesstimate) of a seniority list. Still, the more guys that stay put, the harder it becomes for other guys to move up and move on. It creates a log jam, if you will, which in turn makes things harder on those of us below.