She Strengthens

The Uncomfortable Truth of Being the Rich Friend

Growing up, I had a life of privilege. My parents, a doctor and a high-level communications executive, earned a combined income in the mid-six figures. I attended private school, drove a new car at 16, and went on to study in New York City, where I shared a two-bedroom apartment with a friend. I graduated debt-free and landed a job in advertising, earning a comfortable salary. My parents still spoil me, taking me on international trips every year.

A Life of Luxury

I’m not ashamed to admit that I’m the rich friend. My roommate comes from a similar background, but most of my friends from college and work come from middle-class families. I’ve heard stories about trust fund kids dominating New York City, but I’m the exception, not the rule. My lack of student debt sets me apart from my friends, and it’s not something I like to discuss.

A Progressive with a Guilty Conscience

As a Sanders supporter, I believe that wealth doesn’t define a person’s worth or abilities. I don’t think my family worked harder than others; we were just luckier. I’ve always valued hard work and ambition, and I’ve never identified with the trust fund lifestyle. However, I know that my class privilege has given me a head start in life.

The Unbridgeable Gap

Sometimes, I sense that my friends have mixed feelings about my background. They struggle with debt and financial insecurity, while I have a safety net. When I’ve offered to help them financially, it’s only highlighted our differences. They feel embarrassed, and I’m unable to relate to their sentiment because money has never been an issue for me.

A Newfound Awareness

Moving to New York City was a culture shock. I was exposed to conversations about income inequality, police brutality, and the fight for a fair minimum wage. My friends back in Connecticut didn’t care about these issues; they assumed the world was fine for everyone else. Now, I wonder how much more good they could be doing if they cared about more than just themselves.

A Desire to Make a Difference

I’m not consumed by guilt over my privilege, but I want to do more to contribute to equality. My friends have accepted me despite our differences, and that’s enough for me. Now that I’ve experienced life outside my bubble, I never want to go back. Ignorance is not bliss; it’s a luxury I can no longer afford.