Don't be disheartened Dan. It is tough to find a job when you are currently without one. For some odd reason it seems far easier to locate employment when you are already employed than when you aren't. Were I in your shoes, I would definitely take the VA up on their training. Any training is good training. It counts as experience and helps you get your foot in the door.
As for what kind of training to take, that is purely subjective. Do some homework. Find out what kinds of jobs are more readily available on the island. Of those think through what of those you are most in learning about, or feel that you would enjoy most. Look for training along those lines. Think of the whole thing as a chance to start over and see how things go.
As for last nights post, I am with you on the close friends thing. I am an highly social person but can definitely be reculsive. It all goes in waves, super social and busy for weeks to months at a time, followed by the equivalent in hanging back and keeping to myself. I have many aquaintances, but few people I feel comfortable stopping by to see if they are home to spend time with without too much advance planning. Most of them have moved out of state too so it makes it harder or are complete workaholics. I think thats one of the reasons I like brewing and smoking meats. They can be social, but can be equally fun solo. I think the key is to keep exposing yourself to opportunities to get out and meet new people. The beautiful thing is there are many avenues to doing so. I have joined in on such things as hiking groups and other meet-up type of groups. Sure some of the groups around are more centered to the just out of college crowd, but you never know when you will meet that kindred spirit (male or female, I am not necessarily talking lifemate) and it will not matter that you didnt grow up best friends and stick by each other through it all. Optimism and opportunity is all I am saying.
I find I tend to be more of an early morning poster here, though one mans early morning is anothers late night.
Cheers Dan and the rest of you late nighters. Happy New Years Eve to all, and may 2015 be a great year!
