Simplified Laws Guide to Taxation and Legal Concern “My in-laws are a pain. They are old, and require our assistance; so, we are stuck; can’t go anymore?” Did you hear such comments? No? I can understand many people won’t talk rudely. But you would have heard the sugar-coated version of this “Nowadays, we can’t go anywhere, my in-laws are there, we have to look after them, you know”. Both mean the same. One is raw, other is polished.
The same person would have mentioned 20 years back “In that way, I am lucky. We leave the kids with my in-laws/parents”. “You know, my mother is my son’s best friend”, “We went on a trip, and kids were with them”. “I needn’t cook at home; once the kids come from home, my mother-in-law takes care of them, or else, I would have left the job by now” “Kids enjoy with her. she cooks really tasty food”
Take this to the national level
In our economics class (35 years ago), we were taught that the reason for the underdevelopment of India is its uncontrolled population.
Today, (in the past 10 years) we are boasting that India is a young country; more than 45% of Indians are below 35 years! Our strength is our population. We export talent to the globe. Yesterday’s problem is today’s strength.
Fast forward to the next 20 years. We will call ourselves an aged country, full of senior citizens. No more will the current advantage of youth be applicable. Today’s strength is tomorrow’s struggle!
Look at the business
The same companies who are behind First Cry, Montessori, tourism for millennials, trucking, etc., after 20 years, will change the business model to selling walking sticks, hats, health care facilities, and corporate crematoriums. (digressing from the topic – frankly, a good idea, end-to-end services from cremation to ceremonies in corporate style. Their IPO will oversubscribe for sure!)
Let me get back to grandparents/parents/in-laws. What was a blessing or advantage once upon a time in our life is a disadvantage at some other point in time. Did we enjoy the days when it was favorable to us? If so, we should also remember that there will be a payback period to come!
Isaac Newton is to be remembered always. What goes up must come down. Life will turn back the situation. There is no free lunch. Am I reducing the relationships to the transaction level? No, I mean non-monetary issues like giving and taking in physical help, mental support, and emotional connection. If we take such benefit or gain today, we have to return with thanks someday in the future. Earlier we acknowledge these facts better for us. Enjoy when it is a sunny day and sacrifice in winter! We have to take both in equal measure. Or else, we will only be counting the pain, ignoring the past gain!
Happy belated Grandparents day!
