Anyone else feel like they need to make their parents proud?

[justamom]

BrownEyedGirl-That was really a great post. Sleep deprived or not, you said a proverbial mouthful!

AlphaSigLana-The world is not so different now than it was in the past. Yes, a degree has become a necessity, almost equivalent to a HS diploma. Yet NOTHING can give a person an edge in life like a blend of the basic characteristics of confidence, assertiveness and good old fashioned honesty. Add to the mix "knowledge" and stick-to-itiveness and you have the makings for success.

Sure, parents bring home their babies and dream of them being a doctor, lawyer, dancer, sports star...mostly things they envisioned for themselves. As their child's personality-potential and limitations-unfolds, MOST parents' dreams turn to their child's happiness. We want our kids to be HAPPY. That's TRUE success.

"Making your parents proud" has been a great catalyst for many successful people, but sometimes it can be like putting the cart before the horse. If you can find your own success and be proud of yourself, then your parents will be proud as well. (Noted, there will always be those parents who are NEVER satisfied)

As far as your brother... His road will be far more difficult, but not impossible. It all boils down his character. Too often people ASSume a family that doesn't make a lot of money or finds satisfaction in a "simpler" life MUST be unhappy. THIS IS NOT TRUE! Are we to believe that any man who fixes a car, or lady at the checkout or a waitress could not possibly be as happy as someone with a fatter wallet??? Some of the most desperately sad people I know spend more money in one month than I do in a year.