Mo' Money, Mo' Problems

I will be first to admit that I’ve never been the frugal type. When I was still a student, I was able to budget my allowance properly. “Properly” being the operative word. I say “properly” because, well, I never became short. I was always able to allocate enough funds for all my monthly expenses. I don’t think I’ve ever had to “borrow” money from friends, and in fact, I was the one who lend some. But to say that I “wisely” spend my money is another story altogether.


One of the worst things I’ve had to put up with during my super extended stay in college is not being able to afford certain things just yet – no matter how much I might be able save from my allowance. Book a flight to Cebu. Purchase a certain gadget. Buy something fancy. Treat my family to pizza or the movies! Haha! I’ve always had to manage with my monthly allowance, and more often than not, it was just a little more than enough. Hey, not that I complained, but I will get to my point soon, haha!


So one of the things I looked forward to the most in working was being able to afford more stuff. When I was asked how much salary I wanted to get in one of my job interviews, I told the manager that I hope it would be at least more than what I used to get as an allowance when I was still a student. He asked how much my monthly allowance was. And they never called again. Go figure. Haha! Call me “mukhang-pera”, but who wouldn’t want to get an ample pay check every month? 


But now that I am working and indeed able to enjoy “more stuff”, why do I still feel like it’s never enough?! Now that I have more, I feel like I want to spend more! Ack.


No doubt that my salary is quite enough not only for my “needs”, but also for many of my “wants”. But unfortunately, I think my “wants” have increased proportionally with how much money I now get/make! (But I suppose that is but natural, right?) And here’s another thing – not only do I want to spend more for myself, I often feel more “galante” than usual. And believe me, there is great joy when you buy stuff for or treat your family (and even friends). This is dangerous territory. Haha!


I guess my seemingly “spend like there’s no tomorrow” spree was just an initial reaction to this new phase in my life. I mean, I’ve waited so long for this. Anyone would celebrate and indulge more often, right? It was my hard-earned money after all.


But of course, this should only be temporary. The euphoria from the monumental first pay check should have been over. Now that I get to have more, I should exercise more responsibility and wisdom in consuming it. And while the warm feeling of sharing these blessings is indeed heartfelt, just as important and dignified is saving for the rainy day.


Or saving for that HTC phone I’ve always wanted. Hee. 


“Go give to the needy sweet charity's bread. 
For giving is living," the angel said. 
"And must I be giving again and again?" 
My peevish, petulant answer ran. 
"Oh, no," said the angel, piercing me through, 
"just give till the Master stops giving to you."

Looking forward to be able to share more as well!