Reply #184: Good for him! We live in a modest house in a semi-wealthy [View All]

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neighborhood. Parochial schools are comparatively cheap here compared to other cities so we are fortunate to be able to afford to send our children to good one. Because many students do receive aid, it is as diverse as the public schools in our area. Because of a strict uniform code, all children look the same and therefore can't base friendships on wealth. (unlike the public schools)However, I still am challenged as to how to teach my children about the haves and have nots of the world.

Just recently, my husband saved up enough money to buy a used small plane. This was no small feat, it has been his life long dream to own a plane and he worked very hard to make his dream come true. However, it was a teaching moment when my 9 year old son told his wealthy friend that he can't wait to go flying with his dad. His friend replied "Oh, you'll just love it. My dad has his own jet, and we fly everywhere in it."

Needless to say, I'm trying to teach my children that keeping up with the Jones is not only not possible but it can make us feel miserable and less grateful for what we do have. Focus on what you do have and what you can accomplish is a good motto but you can become easily sidetracked.