Economies run in cycles. This (recession) shall also pass.
Look, we had one of the longest most incredible economies in history. It couldn't last. Now we have a hangover. Feel like shit. Expectations still high while reality is just work. Well?? So what?
We all had to work before. This will turn around and we will see better times again. Will it get worse first? I dunno. How long? I dunno. But I wouldn't bet on it getting much worse than this. And I would bet it is already starting recovery. Might be 6-12 months before all the bad numbers shake out though.
BTW, I don't understand how Gateway and the dot comers equate. Gateway was a profitable company selling a real product generating real revenues and profits. The dot com boom was total BS with no revenues or profits. It was bound to die - and did. Now we are seeing even good companies tighten their belts. You know when a company like Intel or Cisco get hit times are tough. Bet on both being in a hiring mode this time next year. Probably Gateway too.
James