[david927]

I don't know if I have a lot of advice. It's really hard.

Consider looking into public sector work: governmentjobs.com

The pay is usually lower but the bar can be lower as well, and what you need now is to prove your chops in a series of steps. Plus the work/life balance can be quite good, which important if you have a family.

And also remember that you're not alone. I'm not quite sure why life is so hard but it really is. Have hope. Keep your chin up. It can get better.

[TheHumanist]

I really appreciate your comment. Won't lie... was really sad to see only two people responded when I returned to this haha But, your comment was helpful. I never thought to look in the public sector. I just always assumed they would not hire someone with a criminal background but after reading your comment and researching it a bit, it isn't out of the realm of possibility... so I'm going to dive in and see if I get any bites.