I am 44 and while growing up my parents worked hard to give us kids everything we needed. However, they couldn't afford to give us extras (car, name brand clothes, etc). When it came to college, I had to get financial aid. Once I got married, my parents did help when I was in a pinch and I was very thankful for that. Now that they have passed away, I truly miss them, not for the fact that they would give me money, but for the fact that I cannot talk to them, have them in my life, give me guidance. I am back in college and have to pay for it with financial aid and loans. I don't have anyone to help me, and from the research I have done, most young people don't have parents who can help them. The ones who do are lucky.
That is great that you feel awesome when you look at your things that you bought with your own money. You are feeling a sense of pride and ownership. You are learning, at an early age, how to save money, spend it wisely on things that are needed and not spend it on foolish things. This will help you when you get out into the real world, which will not be too far off. Congratulations to you for the great job you are doing--and to your parents for the great job they are doing in not giving in by teaching you great values. It sounds like you are grateful for what they are teaching you. I love to see that in young people.
