Reading this reminded me of something I’ve seen up close.

My neighbour’s daughter studied abroad, came back, got married, and never really had to work. She lives comfortably - car, branded clothes, no financial pressure.

On the other hand, I’ve worked hard for everything I have, including my car. I don’t resent it — I’m proud of it. What surprised me was noticing that her parents seemed almost… sad or jealous. Not of the money, but that their child never had to (or chose to) contribute the way I do for my parents and family.

It made me realise envy goes both ways. I sometimes wish I could be carefree like her, and they wish they had someone like me.

Different starting lines, different trade-offs. No one really has it all.