During lunch with a business associate whom I had not met for years, we did lots of catching up over 2 hours.
He looked better than before, radiating health and happiness. He's a brilliant chap, someone I'm always in awe with. Today he is really high up on the corporate ladder and his future looks brighter than ever.
When it was my turn to speak, I said, "You know me... I'm always looking for new opportunities and ways to diversify the business."
"That's because you have kids!", he said.
To me, it was the Aha moment. That must be it. That is probably the reason why my mind never stops thinking. It also explains why I read business magazines and books instead of novels before bedtime.
He explains, "You see, the difference between us is, you're constantly worrying about your kids' future. My wife and I do not have any kids, so we have no desire to seek opportunties."
Needless to say, there is no need for him to seek greener pastures. He has just bought a big house and he drives a huge Beemer. He has a domestic helper to take care of the chores and he has no kids to worry about. I would look just as radiant if I have a life like that.
But to be fair, this guy is extremely smart and diligent, a true asset to the company. He has an excellent job, now he's focusing on his well-being so that he can retire in good health and comfort, sans kids.
As for me, just about everything I do is for the kids. My priority for the next 10 years is to see both kids through university. It's still quite a journey.
In the past, parents work hard to raise their brood hoping that the kids will treat them well in old age. I am more realistic and have no intention of burdening them. Once my duty is done, then it's time to think about my own future.
My friends and I have already made a pact. When the time comes, we shall check ourselves into a silver home - like a condominium with pool, medical facilities, restaurants, cafes, shops and spa for the aged - so that we can spend our final days in the company of good friends.
Last night, just as I was dozing off while reading "Mean Business" by Albert J. Dunlap, YK came into the room and said, "I love you mummy. Goodnight."
Maybe I don't have to check into the silver home afterall. There is still hope.
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14 comments:
:) How sweet of YK.
Me and a few girlfriends are also going to stay in an estate together so we can enjoy each other's company in old age and have a wilder time than their kids. Ha!
Ting... stay healthy and enjoy for every moment with your boys. Before you even know, they will leave the nest... talking thru experience :-)
ahh... so sweet of your son. Hrm... knowing you, you might be RUNNING the silver estate instead of living in it loh.
Blur, u shld plan 4 yrself n yr kids in parallel; not after u've planned for them. Tt way, u ensure u won't be a burden on them, whether they r successful or not; whether they want to help u or not.
Auntielucia, you are so wise. I agree! :)
Your son is really sweet! That will be so special moment to hold! I can't wait for my son to grow up and tell that to me!
Anyway we need 2 savings. One for them and one for us....
OKC - Yah, the kids can sometimes be sweet like that.
My Sinfonia - Great idea!!
Amy - Yes, you're my inspiration!
Wen-ai - No lah, I want to sit back and enjoy life you know!
Auntie Lucia - Yes, I do. I ensure I am adequately insured and take care of my health. I need to stay healthy (financially and physically) to care for them.
Malar - Don't worry, you treat your son well, he'll be good to you!
You've got wonderful kids, but then again you're a wonderful Mom! :-D
That's probably why I'm not interested in career building here in Finland, 'coz we have no kids. If we've got more than enough to live and to enjoy life, than that's enough.
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