Paying the Bills

Once upon a time there was a young man who was going off to college. He borrowed his parents’ savings and credit cards without their consent and, sparing no expense, bought all the things he felt he would need for college.

He bought scuba gear--”If there’s a flood I can still get to class”; two new cars--”In case one breaks down”; a yacht--”I have to have someplace to study!” and much, much more. “I just want to be prepared for anything that might go wrong! After all, college is very important and I’m sure my parents would want me to have the very best chance of success!”

Well, off to college he went, happy and satisfied and worry free. His parents received several letters from him telling them how well he was doing in college and they were happy.

While he was away, the bills started coming. This happened gradually, so at first the parents didn’t notice, but soon they began to run out of money. The bill collectors came on a regular basis, and eventually the parents were left destitute. They would be in debt the rest of their lives.

They called their son. “How could you do this to us?” they asked. “I had to. It was necessary. You want me to succeed, don’t you? Besides, it’s not my problem. They’re your bills now!”

The young man graduated with a degree in Reaganomics.

Moral: Eventually all bills must be paid, with interest.

BRIAN PATRICK MC ENTEE

Altadena