My dad is scheduled to retire after the end of this year. A well-deserved long rest after over four decades of toil. And I do mean toil: working in construction back in China, and then laboring in a warehouse here in the States, before ending up back in construction. It was non-stop, with scant vacations. Dad’s ceaseless work sustained our family through some tough monetary times. My current life would not be possible without his dedication to the family.
Now that he is retiring, it is time for me to return the favor. That’s the rule in Chinese culture: you must be filial to the parents. After my dad stops working, his only income will be from Social Security. There isn’t a grand retirement account to draw money from. Remember: our family was near the poverty line for a long time. Back then, the money coming in went straight to supporting a family of four. It was always going to be relying solely on Social Security after retirement - for dad and my mom.
Obviously, the monthly Social Security check is going to be far less than the paycheck my dad is getting from his job. That means the current lifestyle supported by that salary will either need supplementation, or hugely adjusted down. The day-to-day fixed costs - such as food and rent - can be covered by the Social Security check. Where I come in to supplement is during outings and special occasions. It’s up to me to pay for the that restaurant bill. Same with plane tickets and accommodations when traveling as a family. Need a new vacuum cleaner? That’s going to be me as well.
Good news: I have a brother to split the load! My parents sure are smart to have two offsprings to support them in their latter decades. Half-joking aside, I dutifully relish the opportunity to give back to my parents. It’s the least I can do, a just reward for a life sacrificed for the kids.
Go go gadget bike.