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The Foolish Kids Who Chased Independence Only to End Up in Debt and Without a Home When Our Childre…
The foolish children decided to chase independence, only to end up burdened by debt and without a flat to call their own.
When our children married, both sets of parents wanted to help them with a home. My husband and I had put by some savings, as had our in-laws. We pooled our resources, and together it was enough for a modest flat. We wanted to buy the place for our children straightaway, but they insisted they were independent and would manage the purchase themselves.
Some time later, we discovered they had indeed bought a flat, but not a small onea three-bedroom, no less. Where had they found the money? Theyd taken out a bank loan to buy it. And who would be paying off these instalments? We can afford it, they said confidently.
Then we found out they wanted a car as well. Their flat was far from work, and public transport wasnt convenient. So, they bought a brand new caralso on credit, straight from the showroom. Despite our advice that a second-hand car would do just fine, they assured us they were self-sufficient and knew best.
Next came the desire for a child, preferably with the birth taking place abroad to secure dual citizenship for their son. Once again, they borrowed money to ensure their daughter-in-law could give birth in comfort, with a doctor close at hand.
She gave birth, and soon after they wanted to redecorate the nursery, soanother loan. We asked who would foot the bill, and heard, as always, We will, we’re independent.
Then misfortune struck. My son-in-law lost his job, and my daughter was already on maternity leave. Suddenly, there was no money. How would they make all the repayments? They asked us to sell our cottage in the countryside. We didnt want to, but felt we had no choice, just to keep them from defaulting. Sadly, even that wasnt enough.
Eventually, they had to sell the flat, and then, in time, the car. They went to live with the son-in-laws parents. Now, they lament having nothing of their own. Of course, this is because they wouldnt listen. The loans still arent paid offit will take years more. Only sorrow and regret remain.
Sometimes, the road to independence is best walked with careful steps, and wisdom is worth more than pride.
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