Called Wilson last night to wish him 'Happy Birthday'. He turned 56 yesterday. Found out that he has retired and staying at house to look after his wife who has stroke. In Portugal, the Company does not believe in flexi hours and working from home and thus he has no choice but to take early retirement. He is currently living on his pension and savings. He has moved to a smaller house and also cut down unnecessary expenditure.
Asked him about his 2 children and his replied was that they have grown up and living their own lives. Over there, the children will fend for themselves when they start working. They do not stay with parents nor give pocket money to the parents. Why? It's the culture! Wilson do not expect the children to give him money, though he is retired.
I also asked him about his own well being and if he occasionally meet up with friends. I was surprised to learn that he does not have friends, only ex colleagues. He said, in Portugal, you need to be healthy in order to have friends. No one wants to catch up with him when they know he has a sick wife. They try to avoid him. That's reality!
Honestly, I am glad that I have a 'better' culture here. Many people yearns to be living in the western world but the truth is.... can we blend in with the culture? I do not envy.....
------------------ Sawbear Travel ----------------
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