Is it wrong to wish for a RICH dad?
@lordwarwizard (35747)
Singapore
February 29, 2008 3:38am CST
There was a report in my local papers today that someone was lambasted at an online forum for lamenting that his parents were poor.
He is a polytechnic student so I estimate his age to be between 17 to 20. For his meals, he usually has plain rice with curry gravy that costs roughly 30 US cents. Occasionally, he might have plain noodles that cost about 70 US cents. Because his parents are poor, this is all he can afford for lunch. Arguably, this amount of food is insufficient for such a "big kid" - be it to satisfy his physical body or some intangible cravings.
To supplement his food intake, he would accept "extra" food from his female classmates (over here, females seldom finish their shares of the food because they want to be slim). This would have been no biggie if he did not overhear them gossiping to others how he needed to survive on leftovers.
When he brought this up in the forum (I don't think it is myLot), he was initially swarmed with sympathy. There were suggestions for him to work part-time so that he can get some extra money. He replied that it might be too tiring for him and so affect his studies. Also, he wanted to watch TV programs and play computer games. That was when the tide reversed against him and he was instead slammed for being lazy and a good-for-nothing.
For me, I am grateful that I didn't have to suffer such an ordeal as his. But if I were in such a similar circumstance, I think I will wear my pride like a turtle shell. After all, that is the one thing I have. Let's hear your thoughts on this topic. Is it wrong to wish for a rich Dad?
22 people like this
89 responses
@slickcut (8141)
• United States
29 Feb 08
This guy needed to go out and get a part time job instead of seeking sympathy,not to work because he wants to watch TV and play computer games is a cop out for being lazy...I think I would have had more pride and respect for myself than to go around eating someones leftovers...He is not disabled,he could work..I am also gratful that my family was not that poor,but i think if i were a man between 17-20 i would try and do something to help myself and my family..His parents might be poor but they did raise him and give him shelter....If working was to timing for him then he did not deserve anyone sympathy...
4 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
1 Mar 08
Well, this is a school of thought that is not that small lol.:P
1 person likes this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
I know I deserve to be kicked but I left out one very important part of the newspaper report... pity I can't edit the discussion.
The thing is, the final straw came when after saying all that, he said too that he was looking for a rich Godpapa or Godmama to give him money.
3 people like this
@gberlin (3836)
•
29 Feb 08
I am grateful for my dad. He is not rich moneywise but he has led a rich life. There are six kids in my family. I am number 5. When I went to college, I worked 20-30 hours week while attending classes full time. I agree, that he sounds lazy and likes to feed off of others sympathy for him. Wake up and get a job instead of complaining about your situation. Thats what I would tell him.
4 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Would have been very sobering for him...
Good to see you after so long, my friend!:)
4 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
1 Mar 08
Yup, just drop by myLot as and when you can, and when you want.:)
1 person likes this
@winterose (39887)
• Canada
29 Feb 08
it may not be wrong but it would be more prudent to wish for the ability to be self sufficient
4 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Indeed, I rather be rich myself than wish I have a rich Dad. :P
3 people like this
@charms88 (7538)
• Philippines
29 Feb 08
That boy you described must be destitute or what. I think he likes it that everything must be presented to him in a silver platter. He was born to a poor parents and for that I can understand his wish of having a rich dad. But to just hang around and do nothing at all and yet complaining about being poor, that's another story.
Who don't like to have a rich dad? But what kind of a rich dad was the boy looking for? I grew up with a dad who had admirably pulled his family out of poverty. However, it doesn't mean that we can simply flick our fingers and daddy will hand out money to us right away. We all need to do something in order to earn those weekly allowances.
And no...it is not wrong to wish for a rich dad. But we know it will remain a wishful thinking not unless the dad struck gold and they became a millionaire. :)
@charms88 (7538)
• Philippines
29 Feb 08
You know at least 50% of me so you know very well how I highly regarded you as a person and as a friend. We are talking about the boy. To be honest, I had a very hard time posting my response here as I do not like you to think otherwise. Cheer up baby. Nothing to sniff about. :)
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Well, if you give me a hug and a mooch and keep me company, I will sniff less...:P
2 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Oh baby, you are so harsh with your words... I feel as if you are lecturing me. *sniff*
2 people like this
@whyaskq (7523)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Wrong to wish for a rich Dad? Personally, I feel there is nothing nothing having the wish. I bet everyone wish to have a rich Dad, even the one who already has a rich dad. He might wish his dad was richer. Perhaps even the dad had the same wish - wish he is a rich dad himself.
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Hi bighead, WOW, it has been so long. It is good to have you pop by! :)
Well said - wishing the dad is even richer lol.:P
1 person likes this
@serena_wai (970)
• Malaysia
29 Feb 08
Sometimes, i feel sympathy about myself. Despite my daily job, i have to work on part times. Ebay listings although it sound simple but it involve a lot of works, packing, tracking, tracing, listings. Every night i am working.
What to do? There are bills to pay.
When my younger sibling tells about dateline to pay tuition fees, grandparents need to visit doctor, or medical treatment; How i wish my father can help up.
* On a second thought, rather wishing for a rich dad, i just wish for a healthy dad.
4 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
OMG Serena! I miss you!!
Having you pop by is like having a gentle breeze on a hot day.:P
Your family is depending on you, isn't it? I really salute you...
And yes, I tell God every time that health is the most important. I want money yes, but please, keep me in good health first.
3 people like this
@academic2 (7000)
• Uganda
29 Feb 08
My, that looks like the kind of poverty in my rural Uganda and most sub saharan states like zimbabwee, the congo and Mozambique!! But am stunned because even here, they say we at least live on a dollar a day-30 cents seems like abject poverty indeed. In a circumstance like this, I can excuse this guy for cursing the poverty at home, and blaming his father for bringing him into such a resourceless atmosphere. He doesnt need to be rebuked, he needs to be understood, or better still, even helped so that he too doesnt have to bear forth a son who will live to blame him as well!
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Well, to clarify, I think that was for his lunch only. I am just guessing that there is breakfast and dinner at home so things are not that bad... I think.
And exactly... that's why we should think twice when bringing children into this world... I wouldn't want them to grow up blaming me...
2 people like this
@mansha (6298)
• India
29 Feb 08
My hubby didn't had a rich dad and he did part time tutions and studied too and then joined army. I think there is no short cut to wealth. If you work hard you don't need a rich dad but yes wishing for one is another thing. But it should stay till a wish and povert should not be an excuse to take shortcuts in life and be an extra baggage over someone.
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
I think everyone has a wish (or more). So for that "boy", that was his wish. Oh well...
*shrugged*
2 people like this
@ladyluna (7004)
• United States
29 Feb 08
Greetings oh wizardly one,
I would have lambasted his as well.
One belief that has consistently brought me great comfort is that I have always been willing and able to take responsibility for my own well-being. This, in spite of a structural spinal issue. My first job was a newspaper route, at the age of 9. By the time I was 15, and could legally hold a job, I generally worked 15-20 hours per week throughout high school and college. Summers, I would take as many hours as were available, and often held two jobs. I chose jobs where tips would bolster my take home pay. I made a point to put on my 'happy face', and be the best at the job that I could. I only attempted waitressing once, for about three weeks, when I had to admit that I was just a lousy waitress. Though, I earned alot of extra income behind the counter of a donut shop, and then later in respectable bars & nightclubs. Was it exhausting? Absolutely! Though, the alternative was not an option for me. By the time I was in high school, both of my parents were disabled. So, we all had to pitch in.
We're all dealt our hand of cards in this life. If we don't play to win, then we're most likely going to lose.
We cannot expect someone else to do it for us. We need to hone our best skills, develop new ones, and put our noses to the grindstone.
This young polytechnic student has much to learn. And, I don't mean from textbooks!
3 people like this
@ladyluna (7004)
• United States
29 Feb 08
Wow! I haven't received one of those purttty, shiny metals in some time. Ooooo, I'm so excited!
Incidentally, I just read a later reply from you to another respondent which outlined this young man's expressed desire to find a rich sugar auntie or uncle. Now I'm just disgusted. He's too darned lazy to get a job, but is willing to sell his soul for a few bucks, here and there.
I simply cannot imagine going through life like that.
2 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Hahaha, I might wish to have someone give me money but my pride is too thick as mud and I wouldn't ever go around begging anyone I see to give me money.
Not unless I turn professional as beggar.:P
1 person likes this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
One word for you, my lady.
ADMIRABLE.
You simply put me to shame.
And you know what? Your response reminds me that my medals have got rusty.
3 people like this
@subha12 (18441)
• India
29 Feb 08
I do not frankly think so. But when we really wish for rich dad. is it possible overnight?
i think no.
you are born to your dad. they have brought you up in the way they could mange. at a point of time when i think i need more money will I wish for rich dad?
I should try to earn money.
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Oh no, such things cannot happen overnight. In fact, if you are wishing, it is already too late since you are already born.
BUT, a Dad who is not rich can still become rich. Poverty is not a terminal illness.:P
And yes, trying to earn your own money is noble.:)
2 people like this
@febriantoeko (205)
• Indonesia
1 Mar 08
how are you today,introduce my nama febriantoeko from me for the solo city, cental java, indonesia , might would ia friends with you and join community
2 people like this
@lecanis (16647)
• Murfreesboro, Tennessee
29 Feb 08
I've been in the situation of not having money even for proper food, so I can sympathize with this guy. Sure, I'm a little skeptical about the fact that he doesn't get a part-time job to help himself out, but since I don't know how stressful his schooling is, that really might not be a possibility. Plus, for all I know, jobs might be really hard to find where he is.
I think it's perfectly acceptable to wish that your parents were rich, though that's a different thing than wishing for NEW parents that were rich. If his parents are kind to him, he should appreciate that kindness, even if that is all they have to give. However, wishing they were rich would also mean wishing a better life for them as well as himself... so I really can't see how it's a bad thing at all. :)
Hey, why didn't you refer him to mylot? :P
3 people like this
@lecanis (16647)
• Murfreesboro, Tennessee
29 Feb 08
Heh, I thought you were saying you saw this on a forum you talked on, thus I was thinking that could be your response to his post. Sorry if I misunderstood. :P
You're probably right, though, he'd just complain it was too hard to make money here. I was just thinking... wow his food costs less than I make here!
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Nope nope, see my first paragraph again. I read it from a newspaper report. That reporter saw it on an online forum, not me.:P
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Oh yes, wishing for NEW parents is a bit too... er... radical a wish.
Unless they were obviously nasty and non-loving, you shouldn't want to CHANGE your parents. Good point.
Refer him to myLot? Lol... first, I don't know him or even how to find him. Second, I think he might complain it is too tough to make money here.:P
3 people like this
@blena07 (105)
• Malaysia
4 Mar 08
It's not wrong, but you are there with him. Make some money
for your own food and luxury that you crave.From the tone he can watch TV and play computer games ,he should be able to have meals.All I can say he trying to gain sympathy and keep his money for computer games etc
3 people like this
@gigisimbre (272)
•
4 Mar 08
Is it wrong to wish for a rich dad.. No i dont think so. But from what i am reading, when people knew about it some of them offer a part time work for him but he had some of the other reason which to me it meant that he doesnt want to work. There are so many people i know who studied and work at the same time, Yes it will affect your grade, but its always still up to the person. He needs to strive more. If you wish your dad could be rich so you dont have to do anything.. I think thats being lazy,,,
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
4 Mar 08
Indeed, there are many working students around.
1 person likes this
@113003455 (160)
• China
29 Feb 08
In my opinion,we can't just say he is wrong to blame his parents and wish for a rich daddy.All those suffering will make the young man feel the fact is intolerable.
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Right, it is not our place to judge.
2 people like this
@SViswan (12051)
• India
29 Feb 08
It's not wrong to 'wish' for a rich dad....but under the circumstances it would be best for him to work part-time to make extra money.
From my personal experience, it's mostly students who have to work hard for it (even kids of rich parents) that value the things in life that they get...mainly the important ones..like education.
Most other rich kids who get everything easy tend to take it for granted.
I have a rich dad...but that doesn't mean that I go to him for help (unless it's really necessary and something urgent...like a medical problem)....and definitely not to watch T.V and play computer games. I know my dad would give me the money for that if I asked...but I won't. He paid for my college education....and other expenses....after which I paid for everything....while I was working and studying...and staying with the family. Not that my dad needed my money...but I felt good about pitching in for the family.
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Well, I think the kinds of kids reach the entire spectrum.
We simply have all kinds.:P
From what you said, I quite admire you.:)
2 people like this
@whiteheather39 (24403)
• United States
29 Feb 08
I do not think there is anything wrong with wishing for a rich dad but he needs to be a generous dad. I came from a wealthy family and all my basic needs and a good education were met but for any extras I had to earn the money for them myself.
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Oh yes. I do think it is quite "WHAT'S THE POINT?!!" if you have a rich dad and all he gives you is peanuts.:P
2 people like this
@ElicBxn (63235)
• United States
29 Feb 08
I don't think there is anything wrong with wishing for a rich dad/family. I think its wrong to b*tch about not having one and then saying that he can't take a job because he likes to play video games and watch tv.
So do I, but I have a job anyway!
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Yup yup, that's why the tide turned against him and sympathy became disgust.
2 people like this
@4mymak (1793)
• Malaysia
29 Feb 08
i think i would called that boy lazy, also...
his dad is probably doing his level best to provide whatever he could for the boy...
no.. i DONT think it is wrong to wish that you have a rich dad...
but i am sure,... you will have something else that needed to be sacrificed - his care and attention towards the family.., his time spent with you.., his own health and well-being..
my father wasnt rich.. but, we were not poor either.. but he worked hard.. not around all the time...
i do understand that feeling - wanting not worry about money... - but surely there's something YOU can do and earn money YOURSELF... and not depend on your daddy ?
3 people like this
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Yea... sometimes life is give and take.
You might be born with a rich dad but if you have to sacrifice time and love from him, well, it is worth pondering at length.
2 people like this
@jeanniemay (1798)
• Philippines
29 Feb 08
Sad or pitiful life situation really gets our sympathy. Well, is it wrong to wish for a better life? I would say, it is not but to wish that we had a richer dad is pitiful. Well, I had to admit, I also wished for a richer dad. What about it now? I just realized that me having the kind of life I am wishing for is what is actually giving in the hope and makes me dream and act on it. Wishing for a better, more comfortable life is what makes me run for my goals and win for it.
If I had a richer dad, will I dream and run like I am doing now? Life as they say is a matter of how we see it. No matter how we compare our life with "should be" kind of life, our life today is far better than what we are wishing for. Sometimes it makes us lose some hope and give up but that is why we are living for.. hoping and dreaming and running for our goals.
I am glad to have my life now, I wish dreams will happen at the right time and as I persevere to have those goals come to reality.
Let's see our life having a new beginning but not to forget that love still makes things work.
Spread the love fellows! I wish a happy family to one and all!
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Yes, if you can turn dreams into actions, kudos to you! :)
And right, in a way, the grass is always greener on the other side, as the popular saying goes.
1 person likes this
@jeanniemay (1798)
• Philippines
29 Feb 08
Wow! Thank you for that medal. Lol.
Yes, the truth that life is greener after the persistence and hard work is what makes us take hope that what we do is rewarding after all.
Thank you!
2 people like this
@squaretile (3778)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
i don't think it's wrong but i guess the rich have their own problems as well. sometimes rich kids think their parents are more concerned with earning money than with caring for them.
other times, they can be very insecure cos of the wealth that can come and go.
for this kid, i don't think he was wishing for a rich dad. he probably just wanted some sympathy, and is not very mature by saying that he preferred to play computer games. i dunno - is he being frank and transparent? or plain stupid. cos you don't get no sympathy from being lazy.
there are lots of other poor kids out there who really scrimp and save and work to help their parents support their younger siblings. so these are the real sensible kids. at least this guy can go to poly. other poor kids in other countries (like rural china) can't even sniff the chance to get an education and a better life henceforth.
@lordwarwizard (35747)
• Singapore
29 Feb 08
Oh in fact I forgot to include this in the discussion - what the final straw was that he was opening asking for goddad and godmum to give him money.
2 people like this
