Three Times a Bridesmaid

"But, you know, money isn't everything," my mother replied - another of her famous clichés.

"You're wrong, Mom; money is everything. In a way, it really is," I told her. I looked around my tiny studio apartment, which when compared to the size of my cat and her litter box, makes me feel like my area is just about that same size. Except of course I have furniture, and television. Truthfully, I will be the first to admit that money is not everything. It is really such a small part, when it comes down to it. It doesn't bring happiness or real friends. It doesn't buy love. I think that to reach full happiness in life, you must have God in your life, and lots of loving people at your side.

And if possible, a significant other, of course.

"Mark my words. You'll never get married now," she warned me again. It's amazing how people cling to these clichés. I hear her say a few more things, but by then I have put the phone down beside my cat, Lucy, who eagerly listens. She loves voices, and is used to hearing the rambling ends of lectures from my everhelpful parents. Now I just have to stop her from purring before she gives away my secret!

I suppose I am ungrateful to them sometimesmore than I should be. But, I have to ask, is it fair to have your parents continually reminding you of all the things you will never get to do? How is that supposed to help?