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Recently, I have been thinking a lot about the value of work and how it relates to the so-called “purpose” of life, if we can really call it that. My mom and I have had many lengthy discussions on why it is important to have obstacles in the course of one’s life in order to feel like one has had a meaningful existence.[2] I have been fortunate enough to have been born to two intelligent individuals who have strived to make a difference in the world. Consequently, I have been able to live comfortably off of their hard work and accomplishments. As a result, I have been able to attend a wonderful school without any financial worries that may prevent others from having the same privilege. The gift my parents have given me is the opportunity to receive a fantastic education, but it is up to me to make my own decisions and work hard after that.[3] One of my friends here at school is very wealthy. Her father is a hedge fund manager on Wall Street, and quite obviously makes a substantial amount of income each year.[4] She told me that when she turns 30, she is set to receive a very hefty trust fund from her family.[5] I thought about this for a while, and eventually I decided that this is one of the worst things a parent can do for their children. Essentially, I think he is denying her the ability to motivate herself into creating her own identity and path separate from her parents. As my mom told me, the reason why video games are fun is the obstacles you have to overcome to get to the next level. Sometimes you fail, but you always want to try again. Similarly, life is meaningful when you have something to achieve and work for. My parents started out with very little, but they continued working hard because they believed that there was always something to work for. I think this type of hope is essential to human life, and to deny your child that right is ruining their life. Of course, my friend can always choose not to use that trust fund—but at this age, it is far easier to choose what we think is the “comfortable” path and make wrong decisions. And, it is never the same when you know you have a squashy trust fund to fall back upon when you fail.[6] | 
