I am not writing this to ask you for money. First, I started my blog because I wanted to go to FinCon 2016 and thought it would be creepy to show up without a “content” site as I learned they are called. Secondly, I did this of my own accord and shouldn’t expect others to fund it/me—whether you’re reading it, enjoying it, finding value or just trying to do the opposite of me.
What is with our current culture? WOW, that’s quite a question considering the past few years/decades.
Why do I receive continual emails saying “Please support our family’s next vacation.” At least that’s how I see it. A child wants to go on a trip and my money is required for their travel.
I think this post is more observational, less grumpy, and thankful to have some personal spending freedom.
Incoming
I’ve received an email from a high school friend’s daughter (I did meet her once) wanting money to go to a soccer tournament in Sweden. Uh, wow, OK?!
We also receive email requests from my niece’s daughters for soccer tournaments in southern California.
Since when did someone’s child’s vacation/activities require other people’s savings to participate?
Maybe I just don’t understand. Probably because we don’t have kids. Possibly because we proudly consider ourselves self-sufficient and financially independent.
Outgoing
I am lucky because I have a Playcheck from fun side income that I can use for my “FIRE lifestyle” category. I now give more freely and larger amounts than when I was saving (which I’m assuming the other parents probably have not, or as well as us). These requests feel a little “taker.”
To me, our culture seems to have their hand out more and more often. Why do online shopping/payment sites request a tip? There also seems to be a “program” for everything. To me, a “program” is a government or organization spending system. Maybe we need more “personal responsibility/self-sufficiency” and maybe pride in oneself.
I understand the need for societal support for crises, downturns, and critical situations, but soccer vacation in Sweden, WTF!?
Isn’t football the world’s cheapest sport played in every village around the world? It only requires one ball for the entire village, right?
Thank goodness for a Playcheck. Luckily for those on my receiving end, we have the freedom to give, and give larger amounts than I ever have.
This “support” is from my Playcheck and not coming out of our Fun Bucket!
*** Nothing in this article is to be construed as financial advice. I am not a financial planner, nor do I pretend to be. You should always consult your own professional when seeking advice. This post is not a piece of literary mastery, just a random thought I had.