We, the undersigned, come to you with great disappointment and discouragement as a result of the changes in our new commission and bonus program. Two years ago the commission rates were reduced. Although it was not good news to anybody, the majority of us in solidarity and loyalty to our employer decided to take sides with Stewart and quietly accepted the changes. We really thought our patience and hard work had somewhat paid off and we were very excited and looking forward to the new changes in the commissions we were promised for this year. We were ready and eager to start a better New Year. Suddenly, our New Year does not look so bright anymore. It is very difficult for us to understand why of these changes which clearly do not reward the counselors who have taken great efforts to go the extra mile rather punishes them for having excelled in their job. This new plan is not rewarding the merits -it is punishing the merits! These changes will adversely affect our income and will take a toll in our families especially during these difficult economic times. At this time, we are taken by a sentiment of betrayal and make us feel that our efforts and work are worthless. It seems like no matter how fast we go on the road to prosperity and betterment of our lives, we will not see the end to the road because the road will continue to be made longer and longer -for us, and even more difficult to get in. And those who are still struggling to have yet put foot on this road will may never be able to do it and abandon their quest completely. Somehow, the true objective of this new plan is not too clear to us. Although we greatly appreciate your efforts taken to get us the 7% against the current 2% commission for the ages , certainly you are aware that this increment does not make much of an impact to the undersigned because the sales activity for this particular age is very minimal –to say the least; and rate of persistency very low. If the price we have to pay for this raise in commission translates into higher limits for bonuses and lower bonus rates, we sincerely think we are better off if you do not make any changes at all. With all due respect, this change appears to be more like a ‘give and take’ game. Only that what is being taken from us is much more that we are getting, and we are the losers. We would like to invoke to your compassion and hope and that you can reconsider the new commission/bonus program. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to greater times together.