The Parents

I was reading a chapter in Rich Bro Rich Sister. As community leaders their parents were often gone for days, focusing on government and medical services to fellow citizens. The four Kiyosaki children grew up in a family environment in which there was more than merely talk about community service and civic responsibility. They grew up with parents who said very little, but who acted a lot.

My in-laws often said little, but acted a lot putting Gui & my interest first. After six years or so, I think they reached a boiling point where they felt that they are the ones who are always giving, whereas we kids are always on the receiving end. So we had a chat last weekend. Very glad that things are resolved now, but basically, without the chat, we wouldn't have otherwise realised that their actions are mainly geared towards us as priorities.

Simple acts we didnt realise, for example,

They took a trip to China recently, and when they heard a particular mushroom is particularly good for pregnant ladies, they bought three packets home. Apparently, one packet costs $100. It is high in iron and minerals. I have been drinking the soup frequently, but of course not realising that they bought the costly mushrooms on purpose.

They have even thought about how the baby's room should be re-arranged, since there are currently two super-single beds in there. Father-in-law thinks the beds should be combined, whereas Mum-in-law thinks that they should be re-arranged L-shaped to make more space for a cot right in the middle of the room.

They also bought a property in London, and mum-in-law keeps saying who knows your child might study overseas next time -- okay this might be far fetched.

Truth is, Gui and I have taken all these acts for granted. We hardly spend time with them, we never buy food for them. We were living in our own world, in their house. They are already in the 60s, but frequently think about us. They got pretty fed up - they said "we would like to be travelling more frequently, but if we leave the house for you two to manage, are you able to?" I have to say "Sorry No". I didnt even know if heating a bowl of sauce in a microwave might cause an "explosion". So now, I am taking steps to learn, and reduce my reliance. Gui and I also ensure we put them as priority whenever they asked us for meals... no more fooling around after a rather strict warning... but we deserved it..