I might have to take an Excel course just to be a receptionist

I got an email from a personnel agency called The Placement Group.  They advised me to take the Excel course as most of their clients require Excel just to be a receptionist or in adminstration.  It is most frustrating to have to spend more money just to get a job when I am looking for a job in the first place.  It just doesn't make sense but I can see the logic in it.  It is why I can't apply to every receptionist job because they do want you to have Excel.  My friend Carol took Excel.  She says the employers want you to have previous work experience using Excel.  Carol is just temping at the moment, this is the first position where she can use the Excel she learned in school.  Carol has been unemployed for the last 3 - 4 years.  She works for a month and then they let her go.  This has been the nature of her career in the last 3 - 4 years.  She hasn't been able to keep a job.  I can't get a job.  I have been looking for the last 2 years but seriously looking in the last few months since my Smokey died in Nov. 15, 2009.  The competition is something else.  Some of the simple receptionist positions require an college education.  I am old fashioned and think that is absolutely crazy.  It is definitely the employers market.  The employer can afford to be really picky.  I am frustrated.  I have to re-enter the work force as I need the money, why else does anyone work at a job.  Most people hate their jobs.  I just have to get a job and don't care if I like it or hate it.  I hope the rest of you are having more success than I am.  Thank you for listening to me vent out all of my frustrations.  I appreciate it greatly from Diane B.