Lately, our family has been faced with some unexpected challenges, and weve lost our steady income. Let me explain a bit more. Im retired, and the pension I receive from the government barely covers my medication. As Ive grown older, Ive developed issues with blood pressure. I have to take medicine for the rest of my life.
My son and daughter-in-law had been hoping for a second child for a while, but it just never happened. Then, when she finally fell pregnant, she lost her job. The youngest is already four and still at home, and the eldest is sixteen now. He works as a courier after school and saved every penny right up until recently. He just bought himself a computer.
When I expressed my disapproval, my daughter-in-law pointed out that he earned the money himself and didnt ask us for any, so he has the right to spend it as he likes. As for my son, he completely lost his job. Before the youngest was born, he made a decent living and could provide for the family. He even managed to save some money. But his health started to decline, and the doctors gave him a dreadful diagnosis. All his savings were spent on treatment and medication.
When the youngest turned one, my son had to go into hospital for several months. The NHS covered the cost, but because hed been away from work for so long, he was let go. In fact, his company stopped giving him any significant cases, so he lost out on commissions. Now, doctors say he needs surgery, and after that, it might take a year, maybe even eighteen months, before hes able to lead a normal life again.
Were all deeply shaken, but the operation is essential, and his employer isnt willing to keep his position open for that long. My daughter-in-law will have to find work to get us by. Shes already considering how well manage on her salary alone. Its tough.
Meanwhile, my grandson spends the money hes saved on an expensive computer. He isnt even thinking about helping with the familys needs. Am I wrong to feel this way? Shouldnt he take some responsibility for us and at least try to ease the situation a bit?
