As if September is "guaranteed to cause distress"... Some might use the popular saying about September and winter, twisting the conversation about this "disastrous" month due to the major financial obligations that citizens face while preparing for the school and university seasons. This is a crisis of crises, and many feel that "the world is collapsing." A family head needs more than 25 million LBP just to prepare for sending two children to school, not to mention other unforeseen expenses.
How will the required funds be secured to pay the electricity bill for August when "state electricity" was completely absent? And what about the daily bills? The Lebanese sink into depression daily as they ponder their bills and how to manage their daily lives. Depression has become a "trend" since everyone seems affected by it. How could it not be, when the facts on the ground show that the salary of two family members is no longer sufficient?
September also holds political implications, from presidential file matters to the emergence of data about some presidential candidates, although this topic may not be a priority for many Lebanese who are more concerned about their pressing financial and living needs. How will these funds be secured for schools, diesel, gasoline, water, and more? This is the voice of the majority of the Lebanese population, classified as "one of the most miserable peoples," and their misery only increases with each passing minute as the exchange rate rises and prices change... There is no single "hero" in the Lebanese Republic capable of answering this question.
Currently, Rima B. clings to her calculator and begins— as she tells "Akhbar Al-Yawm" agency— to calculate the cost of books and stationery before the school year begins. She notes that this calculator accompanies her on her daily outings, from grocery stores to pharmacies and wherever she goes. She expresses regret, saying, "Yes, we have reached this state, and what awaits us is always worse." Here, she raises a question: where has the talk of helping each other gone, considering that this year is no better than last year?
Bassem A. points out that he could not adequately prepare for September expenses due to having to pay off his August advance from work. He confirms he will request another advance for this month, saying, "It seems this situation will persist." It is likely that everyone's ability to secure the essentials for this month regarding schools and universities will decline.
Samira D. agrees with Rima's assertion about worsening conditions, highlighting that it is surprising that school and university administrations do not take this matter seriously, especially as they have switched textbook lists and some have added expensive books or those priced in fresh dollars. She notes that she will have no money left after paying for three children's essentials at middle and high schools, calling for collective support and urging aid offices or associations to lend a helping hand.
Though September is an added month to the Lebanese calendar amid these difficult times, it is undoubtedly one of the harshest months. Will the Lebanese withstand it?
