BG and UC Gal, both of you have hit the nail on the head.
Yes, many of the kids I mentioned are VERY unrealistic, and expected to “have it all” upon graduating from college. It seems they always thought a magic wand would wave for them on that golden day, and part the heavens.
I honestly don’t blame them, because it was the way they were raised, and, IMHO, and from my experience, parents who aren’t explaining the realities involved in excelling in this world are really doing a great disservice to their children.
Many kids go from being extremely pampered, to a world of extreme competition–where they are just another number–and they have no idea of how to handle it. We’ve seen many just fall apart.
As you mentioned, even though our kids were very priviledged, my wife and I went out of our way to
make sure, among other things, that they understood goals in life are earned, and that they were not “entitled” to anything.
Whatever we may have done right, it appears to have served them
well–and for that I am very grateful.
I certainly wish you and your kids the very best as they take on the world.
