When I was younger, I didn’t know what it meant to be truly wealthy. I thought it was about big houses, shiny cars, and fancy holidays. I thought wealth was something other people had – something lucky or out of reach. 

But now, looking back with adult eyes and a heart full of gratitude, I realise: 

Wealth is not what you own. It’s what you’re taught. 

And my greatest teachers were you, Mum and Dad. 

On June 1st, the world celebrated Global Day of Parents - a day to recognise the love, dedication, and sacrifices that parents make for their children. But today, I don’t just want to thank you for the sleepless nights, the bandaged knees, the packed lunches, or the words of encouragement whispered through tears. 

Today, I want to thank you for teaching me about money. 

Because that changed everything. 

You didn’t just teach me how to earn it – you showed me how to grow it. You gave me the tools to think beyond my next pay packet, beyond surviving, and instead, you gave me permission to dream.  

To build. To believe that financial freedom was possible — for me. 

I remember the time you made me put away half my birthday money into a savings account instead of spending it at the toy store. I was furious. I cried. I didn’t understand. But years later, that account helped me buy my first car – and the discipline helped me buy my first property. 

You were always one step ahead, guiding me even when I didn’t understand the “why.” 

You taught me the power of patience. The value of investing early. The difference between needs and wants. You helped me understand that true security comes not from what we earn, but from what we keep and grow. And even when times were tough, you let me see you make the hard decisions – and talk openly about them – so I could learn. 

You didn’t just provide – you prepared me. 
You didn’t just protect – you empowered. 
You didn’t just tell me to be smart with money – you showed me how. 

Now, as an adult, I see what a gift that truly was 
Not every child grows up with that kind of guidance. 
Not every child learns how to manage, grow, or understand money. 
And as a result, far too many adults are stuck in cycles of stress, survival, and scarcity. 

But not me. Because you broke the cycle. 

You gave me a head start – not with handouts, but with hands-on lessons. 
You gave me wealth I couldn’t see then, but that I carry with me every day now. 

And one day, I’ll do the same for my kids. 
Because the greatest inheritance isn’t money – it’s mindset. 

So, to every parent reading this: 
Teach your children about wealth. 

Show them what you’ve learned – even if you’re still learning it yourself. 
Talk about money. Involve them. Empower them. 
Because one day, they’ll look back, and whisper a quiet, tearful thank you for the seeds you planted early. 

Thank you, Mum and Dad. 
Because of you, I’m not just financially capable. 
I’m financially confident. 
And that is the greatest freedom of all. 

Written by a kid who had pretty awesome parents. 

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