There is another thread being discussed as to if you got gifts throughout the year as JW's claim. Many like me, whom were raised in the JW's, either had poor parents or picky ones that claimed you were being "materialistic" if you wanted toys, gifts, nice clothing, etc.
This made me wonder, since we were somewhat deprived of the nice things that others had growing up, does that make us more apt to buy the "best of everything" now....that is, if we can? Also, what about gift giving? I actually just gave my brother-in-law 2 tickets to see a RUSH concert for his B-Day and they are good seats - almost front row! He was floored...it was his dream to see RUSH, he's 46.
For instance, since I had some college education and now have a fairly good job, I'm able to save money and get whatever I want, without having to ask anyone if it's ok, or worrying about if it's too "showy", or to "materialistic." Some of this comes from the fact that growing up I always saw my parents buy junk, crappy clothes that never lasted, used junker cars that cost more to repair than what they were worth, etc. So, I learned somewhat of a lesson from that: I save money now to buy the best that will last the longest. Period. I don't care what is, how much it costs, etc. If I want it bad enough and it costs more than I can afford at the moment, I'll save to buy it. (I have great credit, but no debt besides the mortgage)
Since I was 18, I've had 2 brand new cars. First new VW lasted me 10 years and 140K miles, and I just traded up to a new Audi A4 2.0T Quattro. That should last another 10!!!! TV: Sony Bravia 46" LCD with DirectTVHD. (Hey, we weren't allowed cable growing up) Appliances: Bosch stainless steel all around. Guns: Custom 1911, Match Target Ruger, other custom pistols, etc. Watch, modified custom Omega Speedmaster, HW. 3575.2000. Lawnmower: new Honda...lasts forever. If we need clothing, we may go to Kohl's to save money, but I still get the designer or best brands. No more Goodwill stores for me, and certainly not for my children! Been there, done that crap growing up. No more suits from Sears either. Jones New York and Ralph Lauren fit me great from S&K menswear. Shoes? Italian leather Bostonian Stradas. (8 years old, BTW, and still like new) You do get what you pay for I have found.
Please forgive me, I did not mean to sound like I am bragging, but I guess in some ways I do want to show as well that not all X-JW's end up on welfare shooting heroin chasing the dragon around their HUDD house like the JW's would have you believe. The only thing I have to chase is my son around the in-ground pool that covers most of my backyard when he doesn't want to come in!
In some ways, I feel like maybe I am over-compensating for having next to nothing growing up, and now that I am grown up and fairly successful I can just go get what I want, when I want...and to hell with anyone who doesn't like it. No excuses for having something nice, no more having to feel guilty because I drive a fast red car. To hell with all of that guilt!
Does anyone else feel this way, or have a similar attitude of, "I'll get what I want now to make up for growing up poor" attitude? Again, sorry if I sound materialistic. I am happily married with a son, so it's not like I don't have anything to fill my time, it's just my general attitude of wanting the best for myself and family.
- Wing Commander