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Isn’t it interesting how adult life can sometimes feel overwhelming? As kids, we look forward to growing up with so much excitement and dreams of showing our parents the world. But have you ever wondered why our parents often shield us from the realities of adulthood, especially when it comes to money and finances?
Growing up, all we really see is how money is spent or enjoyed. It leaves us wondering: when is the right time to teach kids about finances? When is it too late to help them appreciate the value of money? I have noticed that some adults behave like children with money, only realizing the reality when the funds run out.
In many Ghanaian households, money matters aren’t taught intentionally; often, the opposite happens. Conversations about money usually revolve around who in the family is wealthy, maybe an aunt or an uncle; leading to a feeling of entitlement.
While it seems that things are changing, progress is slow. There’s a growing trend of spending a lot on appearances just to fit in with societal standards seen on social media, often copying the flashy lives of influencers who are really just digital salespeople. A movie I watched, “Meet the Johnsons”, showed this idea perfectly, where everything was just a facade.
I can not help but wonder what will happen 35 years from now when these influencers grow older. We might see more videos titled “Where Are They Now?” or “Then and Now.” It’s funny how plans for retirement or health are often discussed quietly.
I had a conversation with some market traders in our local Ghanaian markets and asked if they ever thought about retiring. They told me no; their work is their main source of income, and retirement simply isn’t an option for them. Unless someone is really unwell, they keep coming back to the market. If they do step back, it’s usually to pass their shop to someone they trust, but it won’t be run with the same dedication they had.
This naturally brings up the question of their children’s future and retirement plans. A taxi driver shared a story that really struck me: “Madam, I know of a wealthy man who passed away, and his adult children were grieving. One son said, ‘We miss his wisdom and advice.'” On the flip side, another person from a low-income household expressed a wish for their aging parents to pass away, a heartbreaking sentiment. When I asked why, he simply said, “Madam, life is tough.”
Understanding that finance is more than just having money; it’s about knowing how to grow whatever we have is so important. As the saying goes, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” Let’s plan for a future where we don’t work in vain and have nothing to show for it but instead see our hard work multiply, while we trust in the one who truly cares for us
Psalm 55:22 Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken. All while doing our best in our roles and responsibilities knowing that “I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not drop their fruit before it is ripe,” says the LORD Almighty :Malachi 3:11
