I feel conflicted when my best friend receives nearly $80,000 in inheritance

By An   February 4, 2025 | 02:44 pm PT
I feel conflicted when my best friend receives nearly $80,000 in inheritance
Inherited wealth can trigger jealousy among friends. Illustration photo by Pexels
I feel conflicted because I am both happy and envious that my best friend get to inherited a land plot worth VND2 billion (US$79,400).

I have a friend whom I have known since kindergarten. We studied in the same class and rented the same place during university. Our bond is like that of brothers.

In the past, I always thought my family was wealthier than my friend's, so I often helped him out. Money has never been an issue in our relationship.

However, my family gradually fell into decline. My father’s business suffered losses, and he had to sell all of our assets to pay off debts, keeping only our house. This happened during a time when I was struggling with life, so things were tough.

Recently, I heard that my friend inherited a plot of land in his hometown that is worth about VND2 billion. My emotions are mixed. I am obviously happy for him, but I also feel inferior and self-conscious.

I then wondered why he never mentioned that his family had assets and land, and whether he had pretended to be poor around me. Honestly, I also felt a bit envious of his current wealth.

But then I felt terrible about myself. Even though I have never expressed it, having such thoughts showed that I am not as generous as I thought.

When my family was still well-off, I never felt jealous of those richer than me. Has the pressure of money warped my personality?

*This opinion was translated into English with the assistance of AI. Readers’ views are personal and do not necessarily match VnExpress’ viewpoints.

 
 
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