Some have pointed out to me that some of the points I make are similar to Richard Reeves’ The Dream Hoarders, so I encourage everyone to consider buying it.
I believe the point of view is flawed. In a family who went from lower, not even middle, class in one generation, take some lessons from your grandfather. The difference between the lower classes and the upper middle class is a willingness to defer rewards and the determination by hard work to make the system work for you. It is no crime to help your children and even grandchildren get a better education, have the financial resources to live a comfortable life and never face food inequality, and even to have memorable experiences like travel. It doesn't hurt to be brilliant, of course. Also realize that the advantage of being in the upper middle class can easily be dissipated by the next generation since the monetary advantage is usually not so great that it can not easily be dissipated. The children have to take responsibility to remain on top!
I believe the point of view is flawed. In a family who went from lower, not even middle, class in one generation, take some lessons from your grandfather. The difference between the lower classes and the upper middle class is a willingness to defer rewards and the determination by hard work to make the system work for you. It is no crime to help your children and even grandchildren get a better education, have the financial resources to live a comfortable life and never face food inequality, and even to have memorable experiences like travel. It doesn't hurt to be brilliant, of course. Also realize that the advantage of being in the upper middle class can easily be dissipated by the next generation since the monetary advantage is usually not so great that it can not easily be dissipated. The children have to take responsibility to remain on top!