Nephew. Oldest of 3 brothers. Both parents have great college backgrounds; Dad has at least one advance degree. Not practically as a youth nor ever a leader ... just went with the flow and then would freaked OUT angry if things got difficult or not getting his way. Younger kids looked up to him
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I am amazed by this whole mess.
I went 1000 miles from home during the Vietnam War Era - no internet, no cell phones, just 5 day old letters from home ... maybe once a month. And NEVER ever any cash, checks or plane tickets or stipends from the college or my parents or other relatives.
I got myself to/from school at my expense; every penny I spent came from my jobs: babysitting, working fast food, lifeguarding; decided alone on all classes and adventures ... had a great 3.5 years earning 2 degrees and a minor from course work at 3 universities. And got a great job starting 2 weeks after my classes ended (was offered many professional jobs).
Right or Wrong ...at 18, I had to do it all. There was no backup plan or support ... I came home from college one summer and a night or 2 later, my older brother took my car and smashed out a telephone pole. My mom laughed about my trashed car as she suggested I needed to take her to work - if I wanted a car that day. Yes, I took her to work and then went to my grandmother's dining room to tell my plight .... My grandmother called my dad over and told him to get me a car or give me my mom's car ... as they gave permission to my brother to drive MY CAR.... 3 days later, I had an used car plus my parents who were mad as all get out. It was a 3 speed stick & I learned to drive it in the field next door. I had to - I had already paid for my summer college classes and had a job.
Some kids NEVER get it .... most do grow up (some sooner and other kids, years later).
Glad I am not a fly on the wall of my sister's house come this Sunday after lunch. I figure someone is going to be getting some life lessons .... like: College costs MONEY! Money is not infinite! You are oldest of 3 brothers. You got your 4 years of college; what are your plans NOW? We are saving for retirement.
PS The middle brother is finishing his 2nd year of college this week. And 3 years left in high school for the youngest brother.